Is it to early to think about an engine

[Tailpilot]

I still have a long way to go (wing kit arriving next week). I have done some thinking for the future of the rv and I have decided I would like to build my engine. I do have a respected mechanic friend who can help me out.

My question is: when is it to early to start. I would love to get an engine core now and over the course of the build, research parts and options, order parts and install them. Then when I start nearin the end of my build I will have a nice shiny new engine to hang.


Any thoughts

[David Paule]

Sounds good to me.

My general approach is that when I am about to start a major part of the plane, that I have all the equipment that goes into it planned, even if not in hand.

Of course once you commit to a major thing like the engine, you're locking out any future improvements. Also if there's a warranty, will it start upon first run or have run out when the plane's done?

Engines can be preserved and will last that way.

Dave

[Kyle Boatright]

The longer an engine sits unused, the bigger the chance for corrosion.

My suggestion would be to keep your eyes open for a good deal on an engine core, and once you find a core, disassemble it and begin inspecting, cleaning, and sending the parts out for overhaul.

Then, when your project is ready for its engine, you build up and hang the engine.

Alternately, you could buy the core, not disassemble it, and use the engine core to fit the cowl, hoses, etc. Then, you pull, tear-down, and rebuild the engine as about the last thing before you take the project to the airport...

[Tailpilot]

Originally Posted by Kyle Boatright

The longer an engine sits unused, the bigger the chance for corrosion.

My suggestion would be to keep your eyes open for a good deal on an engine core, and once you find a core, disassemble it and begin inspecting, cleaning, and sending the parts out for overhaul.

Then, when your project is ready for its engine, you build up and hang the engine.

Alternately, you could buy the core, not disassemble it, and use the engine core to fit the cowl, hoses, etc. Then, you pull, tear-down, and rebuild the engine as about the last thing before you take the project to the airport...

That's exactly what I am considering. Getting a core now and slowly over the course of the build send the parts off and taking my time to build the plane and engine at the same time

[Kyle Boatright]

Originally Posted by Tailpilot

That's exactly what I am considering. Getting a core now and slowly over the course of the build send the parts off and taking my time to build the plane and engine at the same time

That was basically what I did. It worked for me.

The downside is that if, for whatever reason, you don't finish the project, you're gonna take $0.75 on the dollar for even more stuff. ;-)

[videobobk]

It's never too early! I bought a Hurricane Charlie'd O-320 with 885 hours TT about seven years ago and couldn't be happier. I got the FWF, including engine mount (RV-6A), nose gear, baffles, and all accessories for about half the price of a bare new engine. In about 350 hours, have replaced the fuel pump, which I had to do before the first flight. Great deal! Keep your eyes open, they are out there if you have the cash to jump on one.

Bob

[Tailpilot]

Thanks y'all. That was exactly the answers I was looking for.

Now...... Where do I get this "cash" you speak of