As a recent convert from GA flying, I did a lot of research before eventually deciding to purchase a Tecnam P92 Echo Super with a rotax 912ULS (100hp). One peculiarity of the Tecnam is that it has a tank in each wing, with surplus fuel returned to the left tank, and during my familiarisation training I had been warned that it was possible when flying with full tanks that fuel could be pumped overboard via the left tank overflow.

This could be devastating to your fuel calculations on a long trip. The Tecnam is fitted with a valve for each tank on the relevant door frame, so it is a simple matter to turn off the right tank during post takeoff checks, so that all fuel is drawn from the left until the level is reduced enough to prevent losing fuel overboard.

Related Video: Checking fuel pressure 912, Carburetor Synchronization

Related Technical Articles: Carburetor troubleshooting

Engine Stumbles on Takeoff!
 

In my many years of flying I always like to think I’m prepared for a pilots worst nightmare, engine failure on take-off. Until it happens to you, one never knows just how prepared you really are! In this particular case, the engine came back and the pilot made a successful landing, but that momentary sputter really got his heart beating. The real question was, why did the engine stumble, then come back to life?

Related Videos: 

There is a right and wrong way to install spark plugs on your Rotax 912 series engine.

First, we need to use the proper plug, so make sure you have the proper numbered plug. Don’t take it for granted they are all the same, stop and look at each one. It’s imperative that they are uniformly identical in the number. Using the wrong plugs will, inevitably lead to problems, so be alert.

For example, the 912UL (80 hp) uses an NGK DCPR7E and the 912ULS (100 hp) uses the NGK DCPR8E. The correct gap for these is .023 - .027. The packaged plugs will usually have a wider gap and will need to be re-gapped. It’s better for you run a wider gap during the summer, and the smaller gap during the colder winter, your starts and over-all running will be better.

Related Videos: Preventing Detonation

Rotax has a new addition to their parts inventory: the new Rotax oil filter. It’s manufactured by Mahle, part #825-010 (012) and made in Austria. Rotax took a look at all the different engine installations and I believe they thought it was time for a change and a change for the better it was. The new oil filter comes in an all white box verses the old filter box that was blue/white.

Related Videos are: Oil Filter Installation, Oil Change Procedure, Oil Level Check

  This can be a dynamic topic, but there are certainly some markers to look for in finding yourself a good mechanic that you can really trust to keep you in the air, safe and happy. You probably already have a mechanic, but the important thing is in recognizing if he has more than just the basic skills, but that certain something that gives you the confidence to trust life and limb to him. Let’s examine what the traits are that define “a good mechanic” and steps you can take to find one.