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Hello all, I'm hoping to do my first engine start Wednesday. I tried removing the lower plugs and spinning the prop by hand and got no oil pressure. Does an AeroVee create pressure by spinning the prop or only when it fully runs?

Also, any advice about the actual first and second running since it will be done in the driveway? Low RPM or ??? I know to watch mainly head temps and would not think I would want them above 350 on this first runnings.

caymancraig wrote:I tried removing the lower plugs and spinning the prop by hand and got no oil pressure.

From the Aerovee Manual:

"With the fuel off and ignition switches off, operate the starter until oil pressure registers on the oil pressure gauge. Note: If no oil pressure registers, the oil pump may need to be re-primed with white lithium grease. Also, check the electrical connection of the oil pressure sender."

I highly doubt that spinning the prop by hand would turn the oil pump nearly fast enough to prime or create pressure... would need several hundred RPM.

I was advised to remove the oil pressure line connection, turn the prop by hand, and see if oil came out.

It didn't.

I re primed the pump as described above, reassembled the pump and repeated the step. I got oil.

On first start the pressure registered immediately.

Your mileage may vary.

Running the starter did it.

Any advice on which needle to start with for the turbo engine? I can't seem to find a reference anywhere.

caymancraig wrote:Any advice on which needle to start with for the turbo engine? I can't seem to find a reference anywhere.

I wish I could cite a source, but I'm fairly the certain that the factory is running the 2.5 needle.

I also have no source but believe the same. I think they use a 2.5.


Robbie Culver
Sonex 1517
Chicagoland
Tails and Wings complete - finishing fuselage.
N1517S reserved

The needle size was mentioned in one of the posts here or an article. I just don't remember where I learned it but I used the 2.5 needle from the first start of the turbo and am still using it. You tune the carb the same way as normally aspirated. full power(40 inches MAP) peak lean and note EGT then full rich and look for 90 to 100 degree drop; no more no less. The #2 may work but I didn't even try, since the factory said #2.5 that's what I did and it seems to work.

I am using a 2.5 needle with my turbo. If you look in the turbo kit thread you will find this statement from Joe Norris.


The needle in our turbo's AeroInjector is not modified in any way. It's a stock 2.5 needle right out of the box.
Joe Norris
Sonex N208GD (S/N 450)
Sonerai II N13NN (S/N 1206)
Fortes Fortuna Adiuvat
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Sonerai13

John
Waiex with Aerovee Turbo