Kornelsen RV-6
Some look at me funny as I proceed to explain a 9 year journey of building my own airplane. I then tell them it’s not a model that sits on a shelf, but one I have test flewn and now fly regularly. Pretty impressive EH? But not for the uninformed few who have some sense that a V6 (auto engine) has feelings and begs not to be taken from it’s rightful place??! Are they the crazies? Engines have no feelings! The engine doesn’t care if it’s pulling a trailer over a mountain pass or cruising along the ocean shore. What quantum leap are those pilots making? How is it they feel safe in 1940’s technology? With more parts in a magneto then I have in my entire engine! I have come to trust in the refinement and reliability of our modern engines and simplicity of modern day electronics. I currently over 60 hours of trouble free running with amazing performance and economy not even rivaled by the smallest Lycoming. At $1.80 a litre for Av gas the savings are what allow me to continue flying as 92-94 Mo gas is still considerably less per litre. The descision to use Chevy power was more out of a spirit of proving it’s reliability in an airplane to the extent it has been a reliable auto/van/truck engine for thousands. The cost of repairs and maintenance was also a major factor in my choice as well as availability of many high quality aftermarket upgrades for the 4.3 v6. My advice to would be auto conversion hopefuls is that you must assess your level of mechanical skill and /or availability of quality technical help before embarking on this journey. There are numerous adjustments and R&D that need to be done to solidify a reliable and trustworthy outcome. I have experienced a relatively short time for installation of a conversion with a very simple and clean appearance. Many lookers comment on the simplicity and uncluttered engine compartment. This is much in part to many of the custom parts provided by Jess Meyers at Belted Air. The Radiator. Engine mount and drive unit are made with exacting standards which allow for excellent fit and adjustments on the Rv platform. The custom exhaust is unmistakable as fly-bys exhibit a Mustang like drone. Some changes were made to my installation out of preference and plain gearhead thinking. Throughout the entire process of the install I kept in mind the motto told to me that “ It’s easy to make something hard… but it’s hard to make something easy”. Always looking for a slick and clean look it sometimes took longer or the second or third prototype.
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