flyrotary@lancaironline.net Mailing List Archive

I agree with Items 2-6 Pat and don’t think there needs to be any more reasons. Items 2-4 are by far the main reasons why I chose an auto conversion; Item 6 is a nice side benefit for the Rotary but not the reason why I chose the rotary. I chose the rotary because of its relative simplicity, power-to-weight-ratio, the fact that at the time of installation there was an active builders group such as this one and that someone (Tracy crook) had already made flight-proven components readily available.

Item #1: Cost to install at 50% may be true but for most people getting to 25% is nearly impossible.

Jeff

From:	Patrick Panzera <editor@contactmagazine.com>
Subject:	Top 7 reasons for using an auto conversion
Date:	Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:51:08 -0800
To:	CorvAIRCRAFT@yahoogroups.com, Corvair engines for homebuilt aircraft <corvaircraft@mylist.net>, Rotary motors in aircraft <flyrotary@lancaironline.net>

Here's what I wrote.

I was asked to keep the comments short:

Top Seven Reasons to Consider an Automobile Conversion

1. Cost to install. When compared to the cost of a new aircraft engine, a fully installed and properly functioning automobile engine can run 25% to 50% of its certified counterpart when compared new-to-new.

2. Cost to rebuild. When rebuilding an auto conversion, it can typically be brought to zero-time with all new parts for what a used yellow-tagged aircraft crankshaft costs, that’s if your core is serviceable.

3. Cost to operate. Most auto conversions can be operated on automobile fuel, cutting the per-gallon cost nearly in half. Modern auto conversions have tight tolerances eliminating the need to add oil between changes.

4. Cost to maintain. Aircraft spark plugs range from $26 to $60 each. Automobile plugs are one tenth of that and typically require half as many. The same can be said for virtually every maintenance item.

5. Convenience. Nearly every part you might need to repair or maintain your auto conversion can be purchased from any number of suppliers in your home town, even on Sunday, or are a short drive from what ever airport you might have landed at.

6. Smoothness. Virtually every auto conversion is noticeably smoother than its aviation counterpart, reducing fatigue on components and occupants.

7. Because you can. Why are we building an airplane in the first place? If all you are after is the performance offered by homebuilt aircraft, why not just buy one second hand? Most of us build because we want to build. There’s a great amount of satisfaction that stems from standing back and saying, “I built that.” The same applies for an automobile engine conversion, especially if it’s never been done before.

And remember, there are a lot of experimental aircraft that were designed (and proven) from the beginning to use an auto conversion, so many of the points for a certified engine aren't relevant, and many of the reasons against an auto conversion also apply to those who would consider installing an aircraft powerplant where an auto conversion is specified.

This message, and the documents attached hereto, is intended only for the addressee and may contain privileged or confidential information. Any unauthorized disclosure is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify us immediately so that we may correct our internal records. Please then delete the original message. Thank you.