X-Mozilla-Keys:                                                                                 
Turrbie@aol.com wrote:

As for "smelling the seasoning" I can only base my preliminary judgment of
Tracy's engine based on the few basic external observations that I made.
First, this was a used engine to begin with, so without Tracy's data on the
condition of the engine when it entered aviation service, my off the cuff
report includes 80k miles of auto use.
The rotor housings had shown some of the classic grooving at the edges.
Primarily where the corner piece of the apex seal runs, otherwise they were
in good condition based on an exhaust port inspection. I have seen this much
wear on auto applications with about 90,000 miles. It is unclear in what life
(auto or aviation) the majority of this wear occurred.
The condition of the thrust system was in sad shape. The Eccentric shaft play
was over .020"! I have no ties to Ross aviation. I personally think that it
was poor engineering to apply the sun gear thrust loads to the engine. I
would assume that the thrust plate is badly pitted and the needle bearings
are shot.
This is all of the information that I can reliably offer at this point.
I, am busy as well, building a duplicate to Tracy's new engine, working my
regular job and trying to keep up with a two year old little girl.
I'm sure that Tracy will have a detailed report as soon as he is able catch
up.
Bruce Turrentine

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