Engine Selection

From the minute I sent my check to order my 303 kit I was trying to decide what kind of an engine I wanted. The information on the brochure showed the 303 with the Rotax 277 engine. I really didn't want to go with a 277. The reason is the airport I would be flying out of. The runway is 1800' and there are trees everywhere. I wanted to be able to climb out fast with a margin of safety. I wanted some altitude by time I got to the end of the runway!

I really didn't want to go with a Rotax either. Nothing against Rotax. They build a very good engine. I just think they are just a little to proud of there engines and parts.

My MX had a Cuyuna 430 and I will have to say that it was a very strong engine. I really didn't have the cash up front to buy a new engine so I thought I would start looking for a used Cuyuna 430. I was even considering possibly a Kawasaki engine of some type but with no support from the company I decided against it.

I Fell Into This !!

I was at a USUA club meeting the first of July, 1999 and when the meeting was over I just said out loud " if anyone knows of anyone with an engine for sale would you let me know." One of the guys had a newspaper in his hand and said there was one advertised in the paper and gave it to me. When I got home I called on it. I talked to the guy a little while and I told him I would come get the engine on July 4th.

The guy that owned the engine was 80 years old, and in the process of building his 17th airplane. He was having shoulder problems and had a couple of surgeries, He still couldn't use his arm and was in a lot of pain, so he was getting rid of everything, tools and all.

I purchased a 2si 460F 35 engine. A 2.50 to 1 belt reduction drive. Also included was a 58/34 Culver Prop. All new out of the box for $900.

Miracles do happen!

Back to Main Page