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Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2007 21:51:26 -0700
From: Bob White <rlwhite@comcast.net>
To: "Rotary motors in aircraft" <flyrotary@lancaironline.net>
Subject: Re: [FlyRotary] Re: sensors
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On Fri, 9 Feb 2007 20:21:29 -0800
"Todd Bartrim" <bartrim@gmail.com> wrote:

> .  I did connect the oil level sensor in the pan to an LED
> > on the panel.  I sort of assume that if it ever comes on I will need to
> > replace the engine.  :-)
> > 
> > Bob W.
> > 
> 
> Hi Bob;
> 	I did the same thing and have had it come on a few times. I was
> originally using the stock oil injection configuration from the engine sump,
> but I also ran the oil sump vent to the air filter housing. The negative
> pressure seemed to draw of a lot of oil mist (probably kept my turbo
> compressor well lubricated) and this combined with the oil injection to have
> high oil consumption. I did a few flights in excess of 4 hours and near the
> end of these flights my low-oil LED would begin to flicker in some
> attitudes. On one of the last of these extended flights the light was on
> steady by the time I landed (by this time I'd realized that I had a
> comfortable reserve... however it was still uncomfortable to have the light
> on). IIRC, it was only 2 litres low when the light is on steady. 
> 	When you do your next oil change, you should leave the power on to
> power this warning, then have an assistant let you know when it comes on, as
> you slowly drain the oil, then drain the remaining oil into a measuring
> container.
> 
> S. Todd Bartrim
> C-FSTB
> Turbo 13B RV9
> http://www3.telus.net/haywire/RV-9/C-FSTB.htm
> http://members.cox.net/rogersda/rotary/configs.htm#C-FSTB
> 


That's a good idea Todd.  I am glad to hear that the oil isn't so low
that the engine self destructs if the light comes on.  I do know from
adding oil that it takes a little time for the oil to actuate the
float.  I added a quart and the light was still on, but after a short
delay, the light went out.  So I think the "slowly" part is important.
So far I haven't run the vent tube to anything.  It's just open to the
atmosphere.  I haven't seen any oily residue in that area.

I have a Jerry Hey oil pan for use when I redo my motor mount so I will
be loosing that functionality one of these days anyway.

Bob W.

-- 
N93BD - Rotary Powered BD-4 - http://www.bob-white.com
First Flight:  11/23/2006 7:50AM - 2.4 Hours Total Time
Cables for your rotary installation - http://www.roblinphoto.com/shop/