My kit arrived 3 days ago. I have been sorting inventory of parts. My airline pilot son is making it known that he likes the Jabiru 3300 engine. I would appreciate input on engine choice.
I do have some time, I just got my kit
Also: I need to paint the steel parts and the interior aluminum parts. I'm thinking Zinc Chromate for aluminum, and an Epoxy paint for the steel. Comments?
Tags:
Wow, can a 650 handle a Viking 195T? I was thinking Viking 140t with a constant speed prop if I can get the money to buy it.
It does eat away at the useful load and requires batteries to be placed in the tail cone for CG. Oh and just need to respect Vne :)
Great, just how much does it eat away at useful load? What is the expected cruise speed at and above 8500'?
If my calculations and assumptions are correct:
With the stock fuel tanks, about 420 lbs.
Stock tanks and the Viking header tank, about 408 lbs.
Large Tanks, about 360 lbs.
Large Tanks and the header, about 348 lbs. (my planned setup)
Cruise at and above 8500 comes out to around 115-125 KTAS depending on how clean the airframe is.
The Gen 4 Jabiru is a solid choice. Engine installation is simplified because you do not have fuel return, header tanks, electric dependent engine controls, or a radiator. It is a simple old school horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine. Smooth running and no cooling problems with the Gen 4. Also, the firewall forward package from Arion Aircraft includes everything you need except the master solenoid and the battery. Worth comparing to other installations that need more items that are not included or are in a separate package. If you need install pictures for the Jabiru or have trouble finding the install manual feel free to reach out to me when you get to the engine install. Good luck with the build.
thanks for the info!
Classified listing for buying or selling your Zenith building or flying related stuff...
Custom Instrument Panels
for your Zenith:
Custom instrument panels are now available directly from Zenith Aircraft Company exclusively for Zenith builders and owners. Pre-cut panel, Dynon and Garmin avionics, and more.
Zenith Homecoming Tee:
Flying On Your Own Wings:
A Complete Guide to Understanding Light Airplane Design, by Chris Heintz
Transition training:
Aircraft Spruce & Specialty for all your building and pilot supplies!
How to videos from HomebuiltHELP.com
Developed specifically for Zenith builders (by a builder) these videos on DVD are a great help in building your own kit plane by providing practical hands-on construction information. Visit HomebuiltHelp.com for the latest DVD titles.
© 2026 Created by Zenith.Aero.
Powered by
Exlusive online community for active builders and pilots of Zenith Aircraft kits (Chris Heintz / Zenair light airplane designs).