Chuck wrote:

I removed the intake manifold this morning and found this. The pin in

the secondary inlet port barrel had worn itself loose and

found its way into the engine. Also both of the machined contour inserts

were loose and free to slide around and block the upper

secondary port. They are modified barrels which I got from Pineapple

Racing. I thought they looked more robust than the built-up

JBweld contour method. When I build up another engine, I think I will

just leave the inserts out and forget about contouring. If

its not there, it cannot fail.

Chuck Dunlap

Oh my God. That will do it!!!!!!!! It is amazing the engine did not lock
up. I am here to tell you these engines are ROBUST INDEED!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Paul Lamar

Chuck, its amazing that engine did not stop immediately and throw a prop
blade.  I want to see a photo of what the inside of that rotor chamber
looked like after chewing on that hunk of steel as well as any damage to the
rotor gears/stationary gears or e shaft.  I used the JBWeld to contour my
early 6 port as well as a early manifold and never had any problem.  But,
not a whole lot of time on it.

More evidence that the claim - once it is running it can withstand
tremendous damage and keep going.  So we now have more evidence that the
rotary can continue to run producing useful power with coolant loss or FOD
(Foreign Object Damage).

Good for you having a rotary, Chuck.  Just think if it had been a Lycoming.

Ed Anderson

Chuck, in away has done us all a big favor identifying this mode of engine
failure. I think we should all send him a check for what ever we can afford
to help him pay of his engine over haul. He is going to need a new rotor
housing and a new rotor for sure. Probably at least one new end housing.

What is your mailing address Chuck?


Paul Lamar
 
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