Radial Rocket RG Tested for KitPlanes Magazine

[94z07]

pneumatic start: if for some reason you run out of compressed air before the engine starts and refills the accumulator, is it a simple matter of just filling the accumulator with compressed air from an external source?

[dudewanarace]

@94z07 Yes Something handy we do is keep a small O2 bottle with us, at about 1500 psi. It is just a backup for the main system. Call it an APU.. haha If everything is working, it shouldn't be needed. But, just in case it isn't a bad idea and there is plenty of room to carry it.

[AJDrac]

How are these engines maintenance wise? It seems many say they are relatively easy then turn around with 1000hr or less overhauls with the expectation that the fuel pump transducer among other parts will fail before 500 hours...

I'm also curious about the cost of the engines, and the effectiveness of the electrical system and air starter.

Great airplane, these videos are going to cost me a lot of money in the next couple of years if I can help it!

[dudewanarace]

@AJDrac There is a lot of false information about these engines. All I can say about them is what our suppliers tell us, combined with our personal experience with them. Moral of the story, I would expect a 1500-2000 hour TBO. "Fuel pump transducer?" Never heard of it, so probably more false info. Engine cost I would estimate at 25-30K for an overhauled M14P. A new, electric start, 400HP M-14PF is around $43K if I remember correctly.

[AJDrac]

@dudewanarace Thanks for the info, spent hours looking for engine prices. Really good price for such a capable engine, even new with the electric kit, compared to a new/reman'd Lycoming or Continental. The fuel sensor I was referring to is connected to the fuel pressure gauge and apparently is a slightly odd mechanical sensor that has had problems, but if you haven't heard of issues there it was probably false info or an odd case.

Hoping to see an RG TD someday, keep up the awesome work!

[tracplus]

Great aircraft, great article, great cover photo. Would LOVE to see and hear a video of a low pass if you get the chance. Are there any plans for an RG TD?

[bsg1206]

I still prefer the big 3-blade prop on the taildragger. I'd like to see an RG version of that one.

[getlow1985]

Wow, I love the sound! Great work!