SonexBuilders.net

My first post to the group so here goes…

I’m looking at starting a Waiex build in January. I’m currently south of Houston in the small town called Bay City. I’m currently a Private Pilot and sold my Mooney this past March with intentions on starting a kit build. Originally I was planning on an RV 14 but my mission has changed and so has my build. So…back to my Turbo Aerovee question….

For those who have stuck it out including all service bulletins and additional lessons learned found on this forum, are you satisfied with your Turbo Aerovee? Please list any pertinent reasons for yay or nay? (I’m sure this has been asked before and I’m sorry if this is a repeat question but I’m looking for current sentiment)

Thanks in advance for any and all replies!

Mark

I think that for the amount of money we spend on the turbo Aerovee compared to the alternatives, you can't get more bang for the buck. $11,000 for the turbo, $19,000 for the Jab 3300, alternatives like ULS over $20,000, Aeromomentum about $15,000 plus the need to fab a motor mount, and I can go on.

There will never be the perfect engine. All of them have some annoying "thing". The VW seems to have minor oil leaks for some of us and some of us are never happy with cylinder head or EG temps. If you have no concern for the amount of money you spend on the build, then go for the most horsepower you can fit under the hood. Expect to pay $20 - $25 K in the process. But you will be happy with the climb and speed. You will be burning more fuel, but one would not care about fuel burn if they are willing to be in their Sonex for $75,000.

The performance with the turbo is good. 135 to 150 mph, 800 - 1000 fpm, and a fuel burn between 5.4 and 7 gph.
Rebuilding an Aerovee is a couple of thousand. Rebuilding a 3300 Jab is 10-14,000 the last time I asked Arion about it.

The Aerovee requires some tinkering to set up initially. But once it is set up, it just requires the recommended maintenance. The difference between 85 horsepower and 100 doesn't sound like much, but it feels like a lot.

I don't think there is any good alternative in the 100hp market than the turbo. Especially for the price.

Good to hear from you! I spoke with you over the phone a couple weeks ago concerning the turbo. I’m all excited about the build for sure. However, if you were to put up your Waiex B for sale, I would be swayed in your direction no doubt…lol. ( me amongst other people I’m sure)

Don't tempt me. Lately, I have been getting the urge to build my 6th! ;-)