IO-240?

[8238]

Amazingly, I don't think there is an STC for installation of a continental IO-240 in a 120/140. At least not one I am able to locate. I find that amazing because the 240 is in the same series as the O-200. For specs see continental's website, scroll to the bottom on the page to see the 240: http://www.continentalmotors.aero/engines/200.aspx

Anyway, this would mean either creating an STC (which I am not opposed to, but I have heard it is costly...) or getting field approval. I know the FAA is very picky on field approvals now, but I would think that an engine in the same series as the stock engine (c90 and O-200 anyway) would be likely to get FA if anything? I will call my local FSDO and ask about it.

The reason for wanting the IO-240 is to have a plane that obviously has more power, but not too much impact on legal useful load. Also, the ability to run floats is appealing to me if choose to do so. The O-290 isn't super appealing to me because Lycoming no longer supports the engine.

The last part of the equation is a core exchange. I have an email out to Continental asking if they would work with me on taking a c85, c90 or O-200 core in exchange for an IO-240 either overhauled or new. I am still in the market for a plane btw, obviously

Curious to hear the thoughts and inputs of board members!

[8238]

So got some updates.

From the FAA: changing an engine requires an STC if you exceed the power of the stock engine, period.

From Continental: They will only let you use and engine for a core towards a different engine if there is an STC in place for the new engine. And base price of a new IO-240 is 49k and 46k for rebuilt

Looks like I may be going with a rotax if I want to go through the process of getting and STC.... It will be cheaper between being the engine and hiring the engineer! Also that leaves the possibility of putting a ground adjustable prop or even a constant speed...

[V529]

A worthwhile question.

A welcome change in terms of power and weight. I would guess............cost wise probably not so much.

I do know that Lycoming powered Cessna 170's get a premium, but Not always to the amount you put into the project. The cost of an I0-240 would be almost double the average going price of most 120/140's. Would you get that back out of it later? Not certain.

How many people would just opt for a different airframe at those prices? most probably.

STC's are costly. What they really are is time consuming to generate.

[8374]

I know this thread is a little old but someone else has put a Rotax on a Cessna 150. Here is the link https://rotax-cessna.com
I would love a 135hp turbo Rotax on my 140 with NO weight penalty. 186.5lbs dry. I would definitely donate money into a go fund me account for the development of this. I think others would also. And if you were able to partner with the Company that already developed the one for the 150, the engineering would not start from scratch. But is the cost of the upgrade worth it in the end.

[8452]

Gag!!

I can’t imagine downgrading a Cessna 120 or 140 with a Rotax.

Sorry, but that is my opinion. Only being honest.

[8359]

Gag!!

I can’t imagine downgrading a Cessna 120 or 140 with a Rotax.

Sorry, but that is my opinion. Only being honest.

Have you flown a rotax before? I have about 50 hours in 3 different rotax aircraft. I actually quite like the engine. It sounds like a sewing machine and takes a bit getting used to the higher RPMs, but it's a reliable, efficient platform. Very easy to work on as well.

[8374]

Not a fan of the sound but do like those engines. It’s hard to beat an engine with 70 years of newer tech. I saw on AVweb this morning though that Bye Aerospace expects to get final FAA certified of their all electric trainer in early 2021. Maybe we should skip the stc for the Rotax and work on one for an electric motor.

[5115]

Doing mostly bush and up north remote airports or dirt strips, I like our old Continentals for simplicity and reliability. You get a dead battery, no problem you can hand start the engine (i do it all the time in winter to practice and give my battery a break). Don't try to start a Rotax by hand with the gearbox. I know they are proven technology, they have gazillions of hours on them so far...but all that electronics that goes on those engines makes me a bit nervous in the woods.
My 2 cents, but lets not put brakes on progress anyhow.