JetPilot
Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 1246
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 Posted: Thu Sep 09, 2010 11:15 am Post subject: Rotax 912-S, Volkswagen, and other engine options. |
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Auto conversion engines are very appealing for experimental aircraft such as the Kolb with the promise of low purchase prices and cheap parts. When one does his homework, almost every single auto engine story is a nightmare for the owner, with re-drive, and mountins of other problems keeping the aircraft grounded for long periods of time. With auto conversion engines, you are more likely to turn into a mechanic and machinist rather than a Kolb pilot. If you love working on engines, and fixing problems, then an auto conversion may right for you, just have no illusions of it being a cheap and good solution for a Rotax or Jabiru engine.
The prices of Rotax engines are ridiculous, if I were on a budget and could not afford the 20,000 + price of a new Rotax 912-S, I would be looking for a used one. It is quite easy to find a used Rotax 912-S for less than 10,000 dollars. You would need to be well informed or even find a mechanic to avoid buying a damaged engine, but there are lots of good ones out there that are sold just due to high time. Rotax 912 series engines have a very good record of flying well beyond TBO and still meet all tolerances and be in very good condition. Buying a used engine is always a risk, but I would much rather do some work to get a used 912-S up to good running condition than try to make an auto conversion work. Given the service history of engines over the years, I would also trust the reliability of a high time Rotax 912-S over the reliability of a new auto conversion any day.
Most people skip over the very good option of a used 912-S when considering a less than 10,000 dollar engine budget.
Mike
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Kolb MK-III Xtra, 912-S |
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