Real World Solutions, Inc

Home of RA Classic Apex Seals and RA Super Seals

Editorial: Welcome!

By Tracy Crook. This was the Welcome article published in the first issue of Rotary Aviation News in 1996.

This publication is targeted toward those looking for “real world solutions” to challenges faced when installing and operating the Mazda rotary engine in aircraft applications. It also serves to update the conversion manual (Aviators’ Guide to Mazda Rotary Conversion) with information learned after it was published. Stories about builders who have successfully adapted the rotary for aircraft use will be featured from time to time, but the primary focus will be on the seemingly insignificant details that go into making this engine a practical solution for the homebuilder. If a story about the effect of oil cooler efficiency on cooling drag gets you excited, this newsletter is for you!

One last comment on newsletter content and we’ll get on with the engine stuff. If you are used to reading articles and literature from the engine suppliers, this publication may sound negative about the very engine it is trying to promote. For instance, one of the regular features here will be called “Failure Modes”. You are not likely to read anything from a dealer that even hints that the engine can fail.. but I consider it an important subject to cover. Lycoming and Continental have been building the same designs for a long time, and they are STILL sending out notices of newly discovered failure modes. Just for the record, I’ll say it here and be done with it . The Mazda rotary is the only alternative engine I know of which can reliably deliver 150 - 200 horsepower with so few modifications for so little money, with a bare block weight of less than 200 pounds. At this time, it is the best alternative engine in this power range at any price.