Robert Barnard wrote:

Paul,

Thank you for talking with me Saturday at the Camarillo Airport.

As you know, I'm working on a Sonex and am very interested in putting it
behind a rotary.  The only problem is it requires an engine weighing under
200#, so that counts the Mazda out.  Going with a single rotor seems much
less than an optimal solution.

You mentioned that the OMC rotaries could reliably produce 100-130 hp and
weigh in at less than 150 # with a PSRU.  This type of engine would
certainly be capable of out performing the VW and Jubiru engines the Sonex
was designed for, in power/hp and possibly in TBO also.

I believe there is a big demand for an engine like this.

In just a short time Sonex has sold over 300 plans.  All of the early plans
were for plans built only, some of those are now flying (testimony of the
ease to build this design).  Recently the laser-cut and pre-formed kit has
become available and that opens the craft up to a new audience.  Of the 3
Sonex projects in the area (1 in Oxnard, 2 in Camarillo), one is a kit.

I would like to ask a few questions:
Are these OMC engines still in production?
Are there people working with this engine for aircraft use?
Do you or anyone on the list know some likely sources?
Has anyone put one in an aircraft yet?
How efficient is it?

Thank you.

Rob Barnard
Camarillo, CA

I think Dr. Moller took over the OMC tooling and converted the engine to a 
liquid cooled two rotor. Is that correct Dr. Moller? If so, any plans to sell
the engine to the 100 HP market and below? 

I think this is a picture of the earlier air cooled version.

Paul Lamar
 
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