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View Full Version : Rotax 582 water temp range?



flyidaho1963
08-05-2010, 08:54 AM
I'm in Idaho, we're nearing 100' OAT this time of year. My kitfox, with a rotax 582 grey head will reach 185' water temp on climb out and settle back to 180' water temp for cruise. When the outside air temp drops below 90' my water temp will settle right in at 175'. Rotax states 175' max water temp. I've found aircraft manuals online that state 180'. Are any of you Rotax 582 experts? If I cruise all day at 180' and climb out at 185' is that a real problem? I know Rotax leaves wiggle room in their max. I just don't know how much room they leave. The plane is running exceptionally well. No issues, no signs of overheating. THANKS!

dholly
08-05-2010, 01:57 PM
I'm new to 582 power but I don't think your water temp numbers sound bad at all. Based on a bunch of reading, first hand recommendations from other 582 mod99 owner's and this Type Certificate (http://www.drifteraircraft.com/Portals/1/Certification/Drifter%20Type%20Certificate.pdf) issued by the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority for the SB-582 Drifter (I also have a 2.62:1 C-box), I placarded my water temp gauge for 150*F min - 180*F max for continuous normal operation to 6500 rpm, and 195*F max for takeoff to 6800 rpm and 5 min max. I'd like to hear what the 'experts' have to say as well.

flyidaho1963
08-05-2010, 02:14 PM
That sounds reasonable. I also reached Rotax Rick in Florida today. He said cruising at 180 deg is acceptable. He advised if I spend much time over 190 I may get in trouble, but it's when you are over 210 that the rotary valve shaft seal expands and can cause damage.