Hi Claudio,
The regs say:
?21.93 Classification of changes in type design.
(a) In addition to changes in type design specified in paragraph (b) of this section, changes in type design are classified as minor and major. A ?minor change? is one that has no appreciable effect on the weight, balance, structural strength,
reliability, operational characteristics, or other characteristics affecting the airworthiness of the product. All other changes are ?major changes? (except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section).
I am in the process of changing a mag to an EI, and asked my FSDO this very question. I was told it is considered a major change, and will be putting my plane back into Phase 1 for 5 hours.
They did not say specifically, but I can easily see where an argument can be made that changing
from a mag to an EI affects "reliability" (hopefully increases it!
, and potentially the "operational characteristics".
Just noted your signature that says you are in Maine, as am I (Brunswick). So, I would imagine if you contacted the Portland FSDO they would give you the same answer that I got. BTW, come to our EAA Chapter 87 Fly In at KBXM on 21 June!
-Dj