Zenith Aircraft Builders and Flyers
Online Community of Zenith Builders and Flyers
Engines ???????
I'm wondering what is the best engines everyone is installing or running? Also the pros and cons? I am building the Zenith CH 650 and have just started. I like the UL350iS or the Lycoming 233 but I see quite a few Corvair engines out there, so what are the pros and cons about them. I do not like the Rotax. I want something simple. So any input will be greatly appreciate.
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Patrick Durden on
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Though more power would be nice, the O-200 is nice for parts support and assistance.
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Permalink Reply by Glenn R Shubert on
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My ch750 has the Jabiru 3300. I like this engine for it's 120 HP and air cooled, no gearbox simplicity. I formerly had a Jabiru 250 with the 3300 engine, and the 3300 gave me no problems. I've read that some builders have had cooling problems with the Jabiru. The Jabiru factory in TN makes a lower engine cowl with an extended fairing that sucks the proper airflow through all cylinders. I had to have a muffler shop bend and extend the exhaust pipe to clear this longer cowl.
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Permalink Reply by Patrick Hoyt on
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I went with the Corvair. You can read about it here: http://experimenter.epubxp.com/i/449720-jan-2015/0?
During the time of my build, it seemed to take a while to get parts, but in the overall timeframe of an airplane build, it didn't delay me any, and when I got the parts they were of very high quality.
When I fly places, I am happy to be able to say that I built both the airplane and the engine.
I'm a first-tme builder, and this is the only engine I ever built. There's also more pictures of it here on zenith.aero that you can fnd by looking at my profile.
Hope this is helpful. No matter what, you are in for some adventure if you can see it through.
- Pat
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Permalink Reply by Jan Eggenfellner on
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Nice post and nice job.
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Permalink Reply by John Edwards on
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Thanks Pat!
I agree with the various folks who say there is a engine that is just right for them.
It may be a different engine for each individual.
I am in complete agreement with your reasons for building Corvair as they are similar to my own.
1)It is American made. Continental = Chinese owned.
2) Its homebuilt just like the airframe.
3) Pride of ownership
4)Reliability
5)Easy to maintain after learning to build it in the 1st place
6) I have done my homework and it fits the mission statement well for the Homebuilt Aircraft .
Its perfect for me but it may not be for you.
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Permalink Reply by Rodney Hall on
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Patrick, Did you have any problems either with getting the Airworthiness Cert or insurance?
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Permalink Reply by Damon Brantley on
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There is no "best" engine. There is only what works best for you in terms of mission and personal goals. Even with all the responses you get here, you will have decide for yourself. Just today I picked up a Corvair core engine for my plane. For me, I wanted something that I could tear down and put together myself.
I noticed a comment about problems with William Wynne's poor customer service and I will agree with having the same difficulties contacting him. William is the best known name for Corvair conversions, but people were repurposing Corvair engines long before he came along. If William Wynn were not around, it would be possible to use a Corvair engine. You just have to decide if you like this kind of challenge. For me, I do.
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Permalink Reply by Wayne Tyson on
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Do you really mean that all engines are the same with respect to reliability, ease of repair, parts availability, power/torque:weight ratio, etc. ?
Props should be in the same category, of course, but that probably would be considered another thread . . . (don't ask me why).
WT
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Zenith has tried a lot of props. Viking has tried a lot of props.
The Whirlwind Prop is now a favorite. I see it on the Zenith prototypes.
It is the only prop we now use at Viking.
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My 750 has a WhirlWind prop. I'm still testing at close to 60 hours.
W
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Permalink Reply by David R Ferrell on
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Jan ... I have a 350iS in a 650 with 2 blade Whirlwind. Been thinking of changing prop to the 2 blade Sensenich that ZAC is now using as they report additional 6 mph in cruise. But your comment about using only Whirlwind makes me think I should stick with Whirlwind. Have you tried their 3 blade prop for the 350iS?
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I don't use Sensenich any more.
I am VERY happy with Whirlwind.
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