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Re: Europa-List: What engine for my Europa?

Subject: Re: Europa-List: What engine for my Europa?
From: Richard Sementilli <rsementi@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 9 Nov 2004 07:57:32

So then, Karl, where can I find the information about how to make the
912S run as smooth as a sewing machine?

As a newcomer, I am still confused but overall, I have been getting
more positive feedback vs. negative feedback. Plus, I asked for
objective observations and actual experience with the 912S. I think
Terry is simply stating his experiences. Hopefully we'll all learn how
to get the engine to run smoother than he is experiencing.

Does anyone out there have any suggestions or solutions to the rough
start/stop and idle of the 912 S?

Thanks to all,
Richard


> 
> Terry,
> 
> Y ouseem to be badmouthing a perfectly good engine just because you have a 
> problem
with yours. Some builders have their 912 S running as smooth as a sewing
machine. Mine could be smoother, but then I have not yet done a carb or 
propeller
blade balance. Techniques for smooth startups and shutdowns were discussed
in detail recently on this forum. I have no idea about high altitude 
performance,
but one owner claims 914 equivalent performance up to 10,000 feet. The 914
is obviously a better performer at really high altitudes. It should also be
kept in mind that early Europa builders did not have the choice of the S model.
> 
> I have read all the engine discussions and it seems that each type has had 
> reports
ranging from awful to wonderful. How is a newcomer supposed to make up his
mind ?
> 
> Karl
> 
> From: Terry Seaver terrys@cisco.com
> To: europa-list@matronics.com
> Subject: Re: Europa-List: What engine for my Europa? 
> Date: Mon, 08 Nov 2004 09:53:15 -0800
> 
> -- Europa-List message posted by: Terry Seaver terrys@cisco.com
> 
> 
> 
> Hi Richard,
> 
> You didn't say where you do your flying.If you intend flying at
> altitude like we do around the Sierra Nevadas, you might consider the
> 914 the best bet.
> We have a mono-wheel XS with 912S and Airmaster prop.I would seriously
> consider installing the 914 or Jabiru over the 912S, given our
> experiences (we have over 400 hours on the plane/engine).
> Issues I have with the 912S are:
> 
> 1) It shakes the whole plane when starting and stopping, causing great
> stress on any number of componants.Our exhaust system is in constant
> need of repair because of this.An ignition wire probably broke because
> of this.Standing outside the uncowled engine and watching the extreme
> travel of the shaken componants can be a real eye opener.It is not
> unusual to see +2G/0G on the panel mounted accelerometer following a
> start or stop. I would guess the 912S is worse than the 914 because of
> its higher compression.I would expect the Jabiru to be much smoother.
> 
> 2) The 912S is a little anemic at high density altitudes.At 7,000+
> feet the plane has difficulty accelerating past 55 knots on take off
> until the gear/flaps are lifted a little.Climb rate at these altitudes
> can also be lower than I would like.
> 
> 3) The mixture becomes rich at altitude, negating the fuel economy
> advantages of flying at altitude.The 914 is altitude compensating, and
> I assume the Jabiru has a mixture control (?).
> 
> 4) Although the Rotax is claimed to have a TBO of 1000 hours or greater
> it is recommended that the gearbox be removed and sent in for check out
> every 300-400 hours.There have also been suggestions that idling the
> 912S down to 1400 rpm can cause damage to the gearbox due to rough
> idling.We idle our engine at about 1700-1800 rpm, which make the
> landings a little hotter with the additional idle thrust.
> 
> just my two cents worth,
> regards,
> Terry Seaver
> A135 / N135TD
> 
> Richard Sementilli wrote:
> 
> -- Europa-List message posted by: Richard Sementilli rsementi@gmail.com
> 
> I am down to 3 choices for an engine for my Europa.
> 1. Rotax 912S
> 2. Rotax 914
> 3. Jabiru 3300
> 
> I would like to get objective opinions and actual experiences from
> anyone about the pro's and cons of each engine.
> My first choice is the 914 because of the all around performance but
> more than the huge price, I am worried about the complexity of the
> engine as it relates to maintenance and overall reliability. I have
> spoken to a few mechanics for Rotax but none of them have any
> experience with the 914 turbo. They all say to keep it simple and go
> with the 912 or the 3300. I agree but I'm willing to stretch that goal 
> iffeel that I could handle the burden of its complexity.
> 
> 
> My most probable choice would be the 912S because it seems I can get
> great performance (the same or better than the Jabiru 3300) with
> relative ease of operation and mainenance, lighter weight, and
> comparable price to the Jabiru. I've even found a mechanic that is
> near (2 hours away) to my location. However, to the best of my
> research, it is still a more complicated engine and drive unit than
> the simple low reving Jabiru. It needs pump gas almost always, which
> may not be easy to come by during cross country flights.
> The Jabiru is the least expensive, most simple design, seems easier to
> maintain, and is direct drive. However, it's less proven, heavier and
> I can't find any repair facilities in the NY tristate area.
> Am I missing any other engine possibilities that could be even a better 
> choice?
> 
> 
>




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