Richard
When I had the 912UL engine in my Europa I managed 900 hours before the
sprag clutch needed replacing. On the 912ULS currently installed it started
showing signs of needing replacement at 600 hours. Also I have heard stories
of 400 hours or less before replacement required.
The signs are apparent when trying to start the engine, especially when
cold. When you turn the engine over to start it suddenly violently kicks and
turns backwards a blade or two.
I have not found this to be a problem when warm.
There is a possibility that your problem was caused by not having the choke
set correctly. An engine that has been run a few hours before is quite
difficult to judge for choke requirement when starting. In fact at the rally
yesterday in similar circumstances I started with just half choke applied.
Also a couple of days ago when the air temp was 30 degrees C I tried to make
the first start of the day with choke and it didn't want to know. When I
removed the choke application it started straight away and ran fine.
Dave Watts
G-BXDY Just off to the LAA Rally again today
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Richard Iddon
Sent: 01 September 2012 10:02
Subject: Europa-List: 912S sprag clutch
I often have a bit of a problem starting my 912S when it has been stopped
for while but is still just warm. I was at the rally yesterday and it took
me longer than normal to start the engine after about 4 hours stopped. Lots
of kickback etc. I tried on one mag, both mags, with throttle, with choke
and no throttle. I have a fairly new red battery and the larger starter
motor. I wondered if the sprag clutch is starting to fail? Engine has done
650 hours. From those who have already replaced their sprag clutch, what are
the symptoms and at how many hours?
Richard Iddon
G-RIXS
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