I would suggest you have a look at the MGL EFIS panels, which will give you
the IFR, autopilot gear you need, at a great price compared to most of the
others. The Smart 1.5l turbo diesel comes in at 95hp, which is about the
same as the rotax engines, fuel consumption runs to about 5 litres an hours
good luck, sounds like a good project.
craig
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com]On Behalf Of Dwight Van Zanen
Sent: Sunday, February 07, 2010 5:47 AM
To: europa-list@matronics.com
Subject: Europa-List: Diesel Europa tri-gear MG?
I am new to this system of communication. If you can direct me to
somewhere to get this information, please let me know.
I have been interested in a Europa for some time and would like your
advice on the feasability of a diesel tri-gear, long wing; with aux fuel
tank, IFR GPS coupled to autopilot with altitude hold, BRS and oxygen
systems. I have looked into the WAM 120 from Weisch Airmotive, but open to
alternatives. I am in the USA where an Experimental glider can be flown
without a medical, night and IFR if properly equipped. Here are some reasons
for my question:
1. Long range: Use a turbo-diesel at 3gph, aux tank, perhaps 2000NM in
economy cruise?
3. GPS direct:
4. Low fuel cost: See #1
5. More safety in a SEL: great power-off glide, diesel fuel, add a BRS
6. Easier to make modifications: EXP, pretty simple systems
7. Cheaper for maintenance: Do it yourself mostly
8. Steady IFR platform: wingspan of 47.25 feet
9. Higher altitudes: turbo-diesel, add oxygen system
10. Remove the wings, take it home in a trailer. No hangar rental.
11. Higher speeds: 150kts TAS @ 10k, turbo for altitude.
12. No medical required for a registered glider in the USA, even for night
and IFR if equipped.
And on the negatives:
13. Reduced to 2 seats. Solo for long range flights. Possible to increase
useful load with more power?
14. Initial cost to buy/build and set it up the way I want it.
15. Necessity of getting the glider rating and self-launch endorsement.
16. No toilet. Not needed with my current plane, but Porta-John works.
17. ? I know some people consider EXP a negative, but see 1-12...
Most of my flying has been solo or with one passenger anyway, retired with
grown kids mostly on the other coast. The MG idea would not work for
everyone, but it seems like it would work for me better than my current
plane does. And the FAA rules allow night and IFR in a properly equiped MG
without a medical. May be valuable as I get older. Thanks for any advice or
comments on feasability. And if anyone is doing something similar, I would
love to hear from you.
Dwight B. Van Zanen
22426 262 Ave. SE
Maple Valley, WA 98038
(425) 432-2213
dbvz@hotmail.com
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