by GordonTurner » Wed Oct 03, 2018 11:44 am
Hi Ray
I’m building a classic Waiex and have my Corvair motor built up and ready to go. I located, cleaned and disassembled my motor carcass, then had WW do most of the assembly. I participated when I could be there, and attended a couple of Corvair colleges. I bought my kit second hand. Only one of the stabilizer s has been started, which was scrapped and easily replaced with new parts from the factory.
Sonex has improved the kit quality significantly since 05. But it will still be buildable and you can produce an inexpensive plane that way. Don’t try to cut corners on whichever motor you go with. Your butt depends on this unit. A used Corvair engine with known pedigree and inspection by knowledgeable person should be fine. I personally don’t believe you will save anything by trying to rebuild a built up engine, this idea sounds problematic.
My motor cost a little over $14k. I have the motor mount, baffles, intake and exhaust, and nosebowl. I think the cowling is made right on the plane, the directions seem straightforward, it is not a kit but spa sells the fiberglass nosebowl.
I don’t think spa has done a motormount for B model yet, but talk to them. They are good people and may want to develop one.
It’s experimental, max gross weight is set by the builder. Good idea to stick with the manufacturer on this, but not required.
All good planes. Very different missions. You need to decide what you think you will actually do with the plane, then select the one that fits.
Best of luck. Gordon
Waiex 158 New York. N88YX registered.
3.0 Liter Corvair built, run, and installed.
Garmin panel, Shorai LiFePo batteries.