First Annual.

[rosslr]

I have just completed my first Annual on RMQ. 200hr in service. I have the 912isSport and Airmaster propWith 75" blades. I experienced a slight increase in vibration so decided to send the gearbox off to Rotax to have it checked - result was that there was a need to replace gear set and dog hub that were worn on ramps. No cause suggested by Rotax - said that the 75" WW blades might contribute. I am talking with Airmaster about that now and will be interested in their opinion.
Only other item needing attention was the radiator that developed a slow leak - although I have had it repaired, I bought a new one and kept the old one as a spare.

All set now for another year of adventures!

cheers

r

[jiott]

Way to go Ross! 200 hours is a very good chunk of time for the first year.

[rosslr]

One the locals with a good camera took a few shots of my test flight after the annual - nice quality, but I doubt the Kitfox would be able to take off with the weight of that lens he used!!

cheers

[David47]

Two hundred hours in 12 months ... We should all be so lucky. Well done !!. Hope you can get to the bottom of the gearbox and/or prop issue. Anyone else have the same prop fitted to the same engine ?

[68niou1]

I had a warp drive prop on my 80 hp 912UL. The gearbox was bad and needed new dog gear and drive gears at 145 hours. They don't like heavier props it seems

[efwd]

Hey Ross,
Can you tell me the size of your tires. To me, those look like the right size tire if one flies without wheel pants. Im not sure I will go without wheel pants myself but I would want your tires if I elect to go without.
Eddie

[rosslr]

Hi Eddie,

the tyres are 26" Alaskan Bushwheels. They are fairly common on the Kitfox and I like them. Be warned though, they are expensive and they don't like sealed runways. So if you cant land on grass or gravel mostly, I would think twice. They ave been great on rough off strip landings and particularly excellent on beaches! I reckon it could be worth comparing them with the Dresser tires - I will be when they wear out!

cheers
r

[efwd]

Thanks Ross. I am familiar with how expensive those are. I do have access to grass at Corona Airport where I will be based but I bet the majority of my out of area landings will be paved. Southern California beaches are not likely available to land on as much as I would love that. I guess I may spend that money on Bose A20's.
Eddie

[neville]

I have the whirlwind three blade Rz , which is very light, and and I have had the gearbox back to Rotax three times. I am currently up to 50 hrs on the last overhaul.

Rossir, I sent you a email through thr Rotax forum.

[Floog]

Just curious. For you guys that have had wear issues in your gearboxes: What were the symptoms? (Besides vibration in Rossir's case) Did metal show up on the magnetic plug? Are you running Aeroshell Sport+4? Your plane looks great, Ross in all that down under sunshine! I got to fly with Scott yesterday in his plane. The snow flies again here today.....Happy holidays, all!