Ultralight Flying Machines
With any type of powered aircraft the component that most people want to know is steadfast and completely dependable is the engine. This is especially true with ultralight flying machines as there is just one engine and absolutely no cushioning between the pilot and the ground in the case of its failure.
If you are purchasing an ultralight aircraft kit, you will be presented with the various engine options that are optimal for that aircraft. The only real choice you will have once you have settled on a specific aircraft kit is the horsepower. Since this is much like choosing your new car in either the 4-cylinder, 6-cylinder or hybrid engine, it has mostly to do with the performance you want. That is not to say that you cannot choose the aircraft based on the engine options, just like you wouldn’t buy a compact car and expect to get a V8 in it.
Notwithstanding the electric engines that are slowly making an appearance, the main two categories of ultralight engines is two-stroke and four-stroke. A four stroke engine performs the following strokes:
- Intake (piston downward)
- Compression (piston upward)
- Combustion (piston downward)
- Exhaust (piston upward)
A two stroke engine performs the same things but does so in one downward stroke and one upward stroke rather than two of each. There are advantages and disadvantages of each type of engine.
A two stroke:
- Is less expensive
- Has twice the power of a four stroke
- Is lighter
- Can be used in any orientation since it does not have an oil sump
A four stroke:
- Has a longer engine life
- Does not require special two-stroke oil
- Less of a pollutant and thus less unpleasant exhaust
- Engine sound is not as high-decibel as a two stroke
- Is more fuel efficient
There are a number of companies that produce aircraft engines. One of the most commonly known is Rotax. They manufacture two-stroke noncertified engines, four-stroke certified engines and four-stroke noncertified engines. Their two stroke engines range from 40 hp to 65 hp. Their four stroke engines range from 80 hp to 115 hp.
Some other options for engines are as follows:
- BMW R1100RS – Although inexpensive and light, this 100hp engine is powerful and reliable
- Subaru – Their EA81 is made in both a 100hp engine and a 140hp engine that are well engineered and powerful.
- Jabiru 2200 – A simple 80 hp engine that is just 50 lbs. or look at their 120 hp 3300 Aero engine.
- Simonini – An Italian engine manufacturer with a number of engines.
- Limbach – They produce engines for experimental airplanes and ultra light aircrafts.
These are just a few of the manufacturers you will find. If you are looking at ultralight flying machines, take the time to research the engine that will be coming in whatever kit you are looking at. Check the reputation of the manufacturer and talk with other recreational flyers. And don’t forget that crucial maintenance on your new aircraft to keep that engine running smoothly because you won’t get a second chance to do it right.