Thirty years ago, when every other airport of any size had a field overhaul shop, runout cylinder cores were money in the bank. Every shop had a shed full of prized cores and most maintained a lively and profitable business in refurbishing jugs for use in engine overhauls.
When specing an overhaul, you’ll need to do something with the cam. But heres why a new one isn’t always the best choice.
But SMA is mulling a price reduction. We found the engine to be a strong, smooth performer. What the project most needs is an OEM benefactor.
There are lots of reasons why bringing a new engine to market is a long shot. Here are just six.
But SMA is mulling a price reduction. We found the engine to be a strong, smooth performer. What the project most needs is an OEM benefactor.
With automotive diesel technology and economy of scale, Thielert is reaching for a serious share of the GA engine market. Just don’t call them car engines.
Diesels and the Lunatic Fringe
After preparing the report on Diamonds diesel twin for this issue, I freely confess that I am exactly the wrong guy to judge a diesel airplanes market potential in the U.S. In my view, if the thing runs, has an acceptable climb rate and an okay cruise speed, Im pre-disposed to pick a diesel over a gasoline engine. But then Im a guy who will fly a Mooney lean of peak to save a couple of gallons of gas in exchange for seven or eight fewer knots of cruise speed. I think SUVs are a gross waste of gas for trips to the country club and I obsessively turn off unused lights. None of this has a thing to do with environmentalism. Im not green, Im just c…
Jet-A engines are hot in Europe so why arent they here yet? You wont like the answer: Gas is still too cheap and service is non-existent.
Some customers are steamed by JPIs move to code the digital output of its engine monitors. If data analysis is a priority, buyers should consider EI.
There’s more information than ever about aircraft engine oils but still more heat than light. Heres what the people who make the stuff have to say.
Which shops offer the best overhauls? Owners say top shops earn loyalty not by building better engines but by standing behind the work after the sale.
After years of looking the other way, Lycoming is getting tough on core charges for factory overhauls. Read the fine print before buying.
