How about some input on engine choice

[RV7Factory]

I don't have any specific experience, so I am just shoot'n the bull here... but you if you are going with a parrallel 360 you shouldn't have any issues, even if you went with the 390 you would probably be OK as long as you planned accordingly. For some reason I thought the extension needed was 4", but that's probably for a FP prop. Dan Checkoway uses a Hartzel with an IO-360 (angle valve) and to my knowledge he doesn't have any CG issues, but he doesn't have an extension.

Just for clarification, my point earlier about the guy running out of trim wasn't to say it can't/shouldn't be done, but just to say a little more planning may be in order, especially if hanging a heavier prop out even further from the CG.

Personally, my main concern about my config is a heavy engine, with a heavy prop AND a heavy pilot. It (I) could cut into the useful load quite a bit.

[Dan A]

Okay guys. Here's the straight scoop! My 8 has an Aerosport Power I/O360 M1B with Light Speed Plasma II electroinc ignition, fuel flowed and ported. At atlitude, 7,000 and up, I set the rpm at about 2440 and the throttle full fwd, and lean for 50 deg rich of peak, about 1360 deg F. My average speed is close to 200 mph and my average fuel burn at 135 hrs is 8.2 gph. My home field, SFF, is 1950 msl and with full fuel and solo, the climb rate at 2650 rpm is close to 3,000 fpm at 110 kts. I don't know for sure because I made the mistake of putting a 2,000 fpm VSI in it and it is pegged and stays there until I lower the nose or reduce the power, or go above 7,000 msl which happens very soon after take off. I can maintain 1200 to 1500 fpm climb all the way to 11,000msl.
I like the economy and the power of this engine and with the empty weight of 1100 lbs., it performs great. Oh yes, I almost forgot, My prop is a Whirlwind 200RV CS.
Dan

[captain_john]

Nice!

Imagine what it would do with MORE POWER!



hahahaha, in all seriousness... I like that setup Danno!

That is CERTAINLY the way to setup an -8!

I would be very pleased with that!

CJ

[JohnR]

Dan,

It sounds like that combination is really working well for you. Did you use the standard M1B FWF kit from Van's? If so, do you have any suggestions or hints on things to watch for or avoid?

[Dan A]

Well, the only real problem I had was with the induction snorkle. It is made to fit the angle valve engine and is about 1 inch too wide for the parrell valve eng. I had to cut it down and re-shape the sides to make it fit the K-N filter. But reshaping does give you a flat spot for the alternate air valve. As for the FWF kit, I didn't buy one. I just did the whole thing piece meal. There was no kit for the M1B when I did my engine. I used the Vetterman exhaust and it all turned out good. I made a shutter for the oil cooler but don't have to use it very much. In the winter I disconnect oil cooler from the engine in order to get the temp up to proper operating temp.

[JohnR]

Thanks for the info Dan. I'm pretty sure that is the engine I will be using but need to finalize that decision beforethe end of the year.