I have owned and flown both the Rotax 912 and the 914, with about 500 hours
each.
I have not experience any reliability issues with either one, and from what
I gather from Rotax mechanics and other owners, the 914 doesn't require any
more maintenance than the 912. Living where you do, you shouldn't even consider
the 912. The 914 is the ONLY way to go for you.
Garry Stout
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of janmarker
Sent: Monday, August 23, 2010 7:42 AM
Subject: Europa-List: Engine Selection Rotax 914?
I am at the point in the build of my Europa XS Monowheel where I need to make a
decision on engine selection. I have always considered the 914 the logical
choice
for the high density altitude airstrips where I fly at New Mexico, Utah
and Colorado. Typical summer time density altitudes are at 7000 to 9000 ft in
the morning and typical cruising altitudes are 9500 to 12500 MSL. I believe
the 914 will provide the performance margin needed in this environment.
However,
I am concerned that the 914 may have reliability or maintenance issues that
would result in frequent maintenance actions or failure of components (TCU,
turbo,
boost pumps, etc) that would make life miserable for long cross country
flights. I dont have specific data that would suggest that the 914 has
significant
reliability or maintenance issues. I have read an account of an Europa
owner that changed out his 914 for a 912S due to engine issues. I have over 400
hours of mostly trouble free operations with the Rotax 912S in my RANS S-18.
I would install the 914 in my Europa in a heartbeat if I could expect similar
reliability that I have experienced with the 912S. For those operating the
Rotax 914, I would very much appreciate input on your operational experience
with the 914. Should I be concerned about maintenance or reliability with the
914?
Mike Marker
Europa A197
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Mike Marker
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http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=309858#309858
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