What can I say, the more I get to know this engine, the more I like it. In its latest incarnation, the Renesis, should produce about 200 ++ hp in normally assperated configuration. We are working on a 2nd generation (89 - 91) turbo. Installed for aviation use either should be lighter than a Lychosaurus IO-360 and cost way less, with increased reliabilty...once those pesky bugs are worked out.
The Renesis is now available in the RX-8 sports car and can be orderd from Mazda directly or from Bruce Turintine of "Rotary Resources" with aviation mods for about $5757 . A new "discounted" Lyc 360 from Velocity would be about $34,000. Or, we could get a rebuilt/run out for $10,000 to 25,000 and get it rebuilt fo something like $18.000 by an A&P.....uh, no.
We are determining the best setup for us. I have purchased Tracy Crook's, of Real World Solutions Prop Speed Reduction Drive (PSRU or Re-drive), Engine Monitor, Enigne Control Unit (ECU) and his books. The engine rebuid kit was purchasesd from Bruce (the rebuild kit is the same from Tracy or Bruce) The big issues remain to be cooling and placemet of heat exchangers (radiators).
For those even slightly interested in this potential engine choice, I strongly suggest you link to the FlyRotary website and subscribe to the email list, it is very active and very informative. Most of the members are much more into application than theory. If you are looking more for theory, I suggest Paul Lamar's AREN (Aircraft Rotary Engine Newsletter) website and email list. It too is very informative.
For some GREAT graphics showing how and why the rotary works so well link to the Rotary Engine Illustrated page,
Also, we can use an IVO inflight adjustable prop costing around $2400.00 instead of a $10,000 + MT prop. The IVO is NOT a good choice for a Lycoming due to some power pulse problems, but with the smooth running rotary we feel it will work well.
