"wankle" rotary

[Phoenix7]

Originally Posted by My5ABaby

I found this website about his plane/engine: http://www.geocities.com/eaa818/dmischkebd5.html

11Feb2008 - UPDATE

I now have a rotary engine installed and running in my BD-5. It runs really hot. The stainless steel exhaust stacks glow bright red and the temp probe in the muffler reads 1300 F for short runs. However, SS 321 should be good for 1700 F, so I should be OK. The engine is throttle body fuel injected and has a dual electronic ignition system. It burns a mix of gas and 2 stroke oil, which is used to lubricate and cool the rotor and bearings before going into the combustion chamber; there is no seperate oil system. Timeing is computer controlled. I built the muffler and exhaust system to fit within the confines of the BD engine compartment. I used 321 Stainless Steel that can withstand the 1500 F that I expect for continuous operations. The engine couples to the standard BD-5 drive system. Engine RPM is reduced by pullys and a cog belt, 1.6 to 1, going to the drive shaft and prop. I have switched to the rotary hopeing for a smoother, more powerful and more reliable engine. We shall see. Stay tuned....

8May2008 - UPDATE
I tried to cool the 814 Wankle by recoreing the radiator and improving the airflow, but that was not enough. I would have to install a much larger radiator and make significiant changes to the existing airframe. I was able to get in some short flights with the Wankle and enjoyed the acceleration and smoothness. But short flights were not the plan, so I have pulled the Wankle and reinstalled the 3701 Hirth. I am going to sell the Wankle. If interested, check the Classified page

I guess he's limited to a certain size radiator in that tiny plane.