Rotax 912 life

[chrisp666]

Hi everyone, please excuse my complete ignorance. I am looking at a rather nice Eurostar with, obviously, a 912. The engine has done around 800 hours. What is the situation re lifetime of the 912? Is it like a Lycoming on a CofA aircraft and it has a definite lifetime, or is it on condition?

Any advice gratefully received.

Thanks in advance.

[Piper.Classique]

Which country are you in? If the Uk, you should talk to the LAA. If France, it's on condition but at 800 hours it's probably about time for an overhaul, especially if it's been on Avgas.

[chrisp666]

In the UK. Thanks, I'll get in touch.

[patowalker]

Time Between Overhauls (TBO) for Rotax Aircraft Engines | Rotax TBO (http://www.rotaxservice.com/rotax_tips/rotax_TBO.htm)

[Rod1]

the TBO is probably 2000h but on a permit aircraft this is not at all relevant. Many 912's are hitting 3000 on condition. The important thing is has it been correctly maintained.

http://www.lightaircraftassociation.co.uk/engineering/Maintenance/Rotax%20Service%20Interval%20Guide%20%20April%202011.pdf

Rod1

[rapidshot]

Hi Chrisp,

if it is an Evektor Eurostar i strongly recommend you to check the flex spiral tube part of the exhaust manifold against cracks before buying, i experienced such cracks which burst open at 350 hrs (5 years),

apart from that all rubber parts of the Rotax must be replaced every 5 years, including the mechanical fuel pump

[m.Berger]

The 80 HP engine seems to go on for ever but there appears to be a batch of camshafts on the 100 HP engine that turn to swarf at 1000 hours or thereabouts. I have come across a couple of cases and a BMAA inspector of my acquaintance, a couple more. Rotax have been good about crediting the unused "expected" life against a new engine but it ought to be borne in mind.

[chrisp666]

Thanks everyone...this is my first tentative step in the world of aircraft ownership, and I'm grateful for your help.

[Lone_Ranger]

Hi Chrisp,

if it is an Evektor Eurostar i strongly recommend you to check the flex spiral tube part of the exhaust manifold against cracks before buying, i experienced such cracks which burst open at 350 hrs (5 years),

apart from that all rubber parts of the Rotax must be replaced every 5 years, including the mechanical fuel pump

Only on certified engines (I dont know any eurostars with CAA airworthiness certificates BTW)

Permit aircraft almost always (99.99%) use the uncertified engine and run on condition
(would be a bit daft not to really)