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Info on Converting Aerosance FADEC to Lyc. FI

D

DSmith

Well Known Member
Patron
I have an RV-7A with a Mattituck Red/Gold IOF-360 that has problems with the serial output from the engine computers and therefore bad engine readings on the EFISs. I tried a used engine computer that I bought and it was better but still a problem. I can work on the system but with no factory support there are no new parts. Most A&Ps don't know anything about the Aerosance FADEC.

I figure I will convert it back to the standard FI and some type of modern ignition. It will be expensive but as I'm getting on up in the years to when I'll have to sell it I figure it will bring more without the FADEC.

Have any of you fine VAF folks converted from the Aerosance to the regular Lycoming FI and ignition? If so do you have a ballpark cost for the conversion?

I would appreciate your input.
 
I apologize for offering an opinion vice a specific answer. Especially since my opinion is based mostly on research and not actual experience, but since no one has chimed in…
Switch to SDS EFI and be done.
The nickel and dime of injectors, lines, servo, flow divider, fuel pump, mags(s), and EFI(s) will likely be similar or more in price.
And the SDS will add value.
I’m installing an SDS CPI/2 on the Rocket. Customer service and support is top notch.
Question: with the FADEC do you already have a backup electrical system? If so the SDS makes even more sense.
 
Easiest, pick up some new mags on VAF and an AFP150 or Bendix injection system.
Removed one of those from a friends RV9/Mattituck engine, he never could get it to run right.
 
To Andoman Yes I have a split electrical system with two Odyssey 680s. Thanks for the recommendation - I have read about the SDS EFI and it sound interesting.

To Walt ; My FADEC had run flawlessly for 12 years until February this year. But with no factory support and only used parts available I'm going to make a change.
 
DSmith said:
I would appreciate your input.
Click to expand...
Lots of variables here. If you are lucky you can snag a complete “take off” FI system from someone who’s going EFI. They still command good money though, so unless you have a seller who does not know what they have, you are going to pay market prices. I sold my low time Bendix FI for almost as much as the replacement SDS EFI cost. You can also take a gamble and piecemeal the system together with parts from EBay or other used marketplaces. As an example, I purchased an “overhauled” (no paper) Bendix RSA 10 servo for $75 a few years ago. It arrived as advertised. flow dividers, fuel pumps and nozzles are similarly available for cheap - at risk. Serviceable magnetos still command good money from the fewer and fewer people who are still holding out for that ancient technology, but there are plenty of options for EI . Some work better than others, but fortunately, the “best” (SDS CPI) is also one of the most affordable - and even less expensive than a magneto purchase if you shop around. Since you are already comfortable with an electrically dependent airplane, then the least expensive route is likely to be switching over to SDS EFI. The “easiest” from a wrenching standpoint is arguably the mechanical FI and mags. If you are worried about resale, the full EFI route is still odd enough to cause suspicion (much like EI 20 years ago), but it’s gaining acceptance by the day. The sweet spot for resale and performance is likely the mechanical FI and a magneto/CPI EI ignition. I think this will give you the deepest pool of potential buyers.
 
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