simpkinsona
Well Known Member
As I see it, the biggest problem with auto conversions is the unknown unknowns (thank you Donald Rumsfeld). Lycoming installations are fairly standardized and the things that can go wrong are well known. The thousands of production airplanes, each with exactly the same systems and configurations have weeded out most of the unknown problems. In a small group of auto conversion installations, it is impossible to know all the potential failures. Those of us who choose to use auto engines have to continue to be vigilant on our engines and learn from the failures to eliminate as many possible problems as we can.
I like to tell myself that by running a known configuration and keeping a careful inspection regimen, I can have reliability close to a Lycoming. I think the engine itself, when kept to a conservative HP level is more reliable than a Lycoming. I worry more about the support systems, such as prop, gearbox, electrical system, fuel system.
In any case, flying single engine, Lycoming or otherwise, has caused me to be ready to deal with a power loss at anytime.
Randy, thanks for all your work on these engines. It was great getting to know you last summer.
-Andy
I like to tell myself that by running a known configuration and keeping a careful inspection regimen, I can have reliability close to a Lycoming. I think the engine itself, when kept to a conservative HP level is more reliable than a Lycoming. I worry more about the support systems, such as prop, gearbox, electrical system, fuel system.
In any case, flying single engine, Lycoming or otherwise, has caused me to be ready to deal with a power loss at anytime.
Randy, thanks for all your work on these engines. It was great getting to know you last summer.
-Andy