James Aircraft Cowling, Plenum, Induction Inlet

[F G Eckert]

All,
Requesting experiences using James Aircraft RV-14 Cowling, Plenum, Induction Inlet.
Did you find it worth it?
What did you like/dislike?

 

[Aden Rich]

Fiberglass quality is better concerning overall fitting together. Have to mount 3 rings into the cowlings, so more work. Baffling is about a wash but then you have to fit the plenum. Plenum is more work to take off for checks and maintenance. Overall the James kit is more expensive due to the plenum and components. Maybe got 5 mph. On the -3/4's its a lot of work around the cheek cowls. James "looks" cooler and faster on the ground so therefore it must be better! Right? I am going back to a standard cowl on the next build to keep it simple and lighter with less work to fit it up. One could say you may get more money in resale for the James setup but there is nothing to substantiate that claim.

 

[rockwoodrv9]

I started with the standard cowl on my 9A, got it fitted and didnt like how the hinges came out so I got a James cowl. It was finished better and I was able to pick it up at their shop in Oregon. I have a carb on the bottom O-320 and I was not able to make their cone shaped air filter system work so it was a lot of effort making the standard FAB work. In the end, I am happy with the results. I have a plenum and my temps are great. It looks good and Im sure it is much faster! Ha!
Im sure you will be happy with either choice.

PM me if you have any other questions or want more photos.