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Jimmy Young
Joined: 24 Nov 2007
Posts: 182
Location: Missouri City, TX
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 Posted: Wed Jul 01, 2009 5:46 pm Post subject: Changing engines. |
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After 11 months and 112 hrs of flying with my Generac, I've pulled it off and am getting a new HKS 700 for my Kolb.
The reason for the change is the fact that I could not get adequate power out of the Generac to safely fly my Kolb. At 435 lbs. empty, 750 lbs. fully loaded (220 lbs. of me, 80 lbs. of fuel and a little baggage), I never got a comfortable climb rate. I think the Generac may work great for a lighter plane like the Valley Engineering Backyard Flyer, a true Ultralight at 254 lbs., but I was taxing it beyond it's safe flying capacity with my weights.
Even though it did not work out for me, I can't say enough good things about the Smith's at Valley Engineering. Together, we tried everything we could to squeeze out more performance. They bent over backwards trying to help me out sending me free props to try, and making suggestions such as removing the air cowling to eliminate the blower fan power draw. I learned much, had fun, & have no regrets for trying it. I had hit the point where I did not like to fly my plane because I knew it was not going to get any better, and I became timid about landing anywhere other than a long strip. I want to be able to fly my Kolb into an 800' strip and have no concerns about getting out.
I hauled my Kolb down to Jerry Olenik at Greensky two weekends ago and dropped it off for the engine install. Should be ready in 2 or 3 more weeks, and I'm looking forward to getting it back and flying again soon. I know they are expensive little suckers, but I am fortunate enough to be somewhat able to afford it, (still employed, wife works, kids grown) and flying my Kolb is what I like to do. When I get it back, I'll post again with photos & info.
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_________________
Jimmy Young
Missouri City, TX
Kolb FS II/HKS 700 |
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Arksey(at)aol.com
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| Posted: Wed Jul 01, 2009 6:40 pm Post subject: Changing engines. |
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Jimmy,
will be looking forward to the info on how the HKS works out on your firestar. thanks for the post.
Jim
do not archive
JIM SWAN
firestar ll, 503, N663S
Eaton Rapids, Mi. 48827
PH 517-663-8488 runway 2300' E & W (42-28.58N 084-44.69 W )
Make your summer sizzle with fast and easy recipes for the grill.
[quote][b]
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