lml@lancaironline.net Mailing List Archive

Tracy, owner of RotaryAviation.com, had over 1500hrs on his 13B before he removed it and replaced it with the new version of the 13B [Renisis] which is used in the Rx8. The only reason he removed it was because, as an experimentor he wanted to see how this new engine design would preform on his a/c. He didn't need to change it as it was still running fine. There are reports of training Gryo's who have several thousand hours on their engines w/out a rebuild..

We are now seeing a new rotary powered a/c fly every month or two [on average] so the cross section of aircraft which are going this route is increasing rapidly. I think time will show us just how robust the Rotary engine really is!

Jarrett

Mark Steitle responds. "If you have actual (verifiable) examples of where the rotary engine failed in flight, causing a crash, I would sure like to hear about them. But please provide some details so I know which accident you're referring."

Well, I don't have any examples... so, I apologize to all users of rotary engines and to Mazda too. Further, the engine decision for my plane was long ago settled in favor of Lyc. and I, therefore, simply don't have the time or inclination to research the recent accident history of aircraft rotary engines.

Just like every other person on this website, I get excited in hearing about new technologies that might be applied to our Lancairs. I sincerely hope rotary engines prove to be safe, reliable and relatively inexpensive for our applications.

It was a concern for safety that triggered my original (unsubstantiated) statement and attending questions. If you know the answers, I would still like to hear them. Of the more high-time rotary-powered aircraft now flying, how many flying hours are you seeing on the engines without serious maintenance or modification? On the RDs/PRUs and/or PSRUs?

Thanks - and again many apologies. Greg Nelson