Getting the Lead Out

YankeeClipper · #1 08-05-18, 10:13 AM

Has there been any indication about the fate of the Skymaster engines on this front? The latest discussion I see here is 2013.

I'm rather hesitant to make a purchase unless I understand the future of the TCM 360s a bit more.

hharney · #2 08-06-18, 12:16 PM

All the new fuels planned will be acceptable for use in 99% of engines already out there. At least that is what we are suppose to believe. It's a big deal to make an alternative that the FAA will stamp for a certified airplane. It takes a ton of testing and due diligence on the part of the STC holder to make these mods acceptable.

The area that I am concerned with is the cost, there is already an established price out there and it's damn expensive for 100LL. You think this new fuel is going to be cheaper? I am not encouraged to think so, why would it, we are already paying the price. When it comes down to it we have some very expensive trophies in our hangars.

YankeeClipper · #3 08-06-18, 03:26 PM

Herb,

I've seen the FAA update that they have selected their two candidates for the next phase (III I think). They were Swift and Shell. But I can't find any more information about compatibility goals, and haven't come across a number like 99%. Is that meant to be without modification?

On price, I guess we'll find out. As usual, the speculation mill has churned out very convincing arguments about that ... on both sides.

The whole topic appears rife with uncertainty and confusion, honestly. I look at the Petersen site, for example, to find applications for their STC for Mogas. Would this satisfy the impending PAFI requirements? Even if so, in Lower CT I'd have to fly 35 minutes out and back to the nearest airport that has it. And when was the last time you saw auto fuel without ethanol? Around here, it's been a while for me.

hharney · #4 08-07-18, 12:57 PM

I am not aware of any modification required. Phillips is also working on new fuel. Swift is available now and a limited location as part of their due diligence for the FAA. It is typically less money than 100LL but this formula that is being distributed now may not be the final replacement blend. Oshkosh had some forums and info about the new fuels but I didn't really pay much attention to it this year.

kilr4d · #5 08-07-18, 04:20 PM

I think it's also worth noting that the Cirrus SR20 is powered by the TCM IO-360-ES. Highly unlikely that there would be a fuel change that grounds the SR20 fleet.

Apart from the fuel pump and prop governor it's basically the same engine as our Skymasters....

hharney · #6 08-07-18, 08:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kilr4d

I think it's also worth noting that the Cirrus SR20 is powered by the TCM IO-360-ES. Highly unlikely that there would be a fuel change that grounds the SR20 fleet.

Apart from the fuel pump and prop governor it's basically the same engine as our Skymasters....

New SR20 has a Lycoming