"Perry J. Mick" wrote:

My last post was speculation about Tifft's piloting.  This
one is about his engine failure.

I hate to keep bringing this up, but I think we can learn
from accidents.  When you read this:

http://www.ntsb.gov/ntsb/brief2.asp?ev_id=20001207X03044&ntsbno=SEA95LA053&akey=1

It is obvious the NTSB never determined a cause for his
engine failure.  They don't mention frozen pistons as Bill
did.

Here is a quote:

"Before removing the spark plugs, the propeller was found
to rotate easily. The top spark plugs were removed and all
four cylinders were checked for compression and suction.
Accessory gear and valve train continuity was established.
All of the spark plugs were removed and operating signatures
appeared normal. Clean oil was found in the engine."

This seems to say there was no fault in the engine.

They mention he had dual electronic ignition.  Could he have
had an electrical system failure?  Now this is something that
would bring my beloved rotary engine to a stop.  Maybe he
didn't build in enough redundancy into his electrical system
to be totaly dependent upon it for ignition?  More speculation,
sorry.

--
Perry Mick
Duckt N7XR
http://www.ductedfan.com

The pistons could also have cooled off and shrunk allowing the engine
to appear normal.

Paul Lamar
 
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