First year's feedback
So here we are a full year since I got the first ATF, got my 2009 ATF from CAA in 20 minutes.
The Sav has done 110 hours in the year, furthest I wandered from JHB was Kroosnstad and Barberton AF. We are planning to go much further this coming year.
Below are all the issues (or work outside normal engine and airframe requirements) I experienced with the Sav since completing the proving flights.
1. 40 Hrs - Chanaged leaking Rotax fuel pump.
2. Rotax decided we had to replace gearbox gears and mine was one that had to be changed. Done by Rotax AMO.
3. Under advice of the Rotax AMO, I fitted a solid elbow to the oil inlet (front of motor, by the fuel pump) which prevents low pressure due to a possible rubber pipe bend in flight.
4. 91 hrs - The fuel low level switch that sits in the top of the fuel header tank started leaking, John Waterson sent me a new one within 3 days (great support !)
5. 95 hrs - The Ac stood outside during rain, I covered the windscreen but the cover flapped on the side scratching the Lexan - Boet's advice of elbow grease and Silvo fixed it to almost new.
6. 100 hrs - Replaced brake disks and pads, at build time I did not ream out the caliper mounting bracket which needs a bit of play, so the disks were shot. In the last 10 hours the disks are still flawless.
During the annual inspection, Fred B's beagle eyes picked up 2 wee issues:
1. Coolant header tank (small round black tank that sits ontop of the motor) was touching the engine block, eventually the rubber would wear away. Fixed
2. Rubber fuel hose between filter and pipe entering engine bay had a small crack on the loose side of the clamp. Fixed by fitting a better sized pipe.
Apart from above the prop has been adjusted a few times to give me the best performance between climb and cruise. I am happy with the DUC windspoon, it is great for the climb, obviously you give a bit away in drag of the spoon end in the cruise.
I am VERY pleased with the Sav's performance and reliability.
What do I really enjoy ?
Landing on small bush strips - It's really awesome to experience real short full flap landings, crosswind landing capabilities are great as well.
Taking advantage of the conditions offered with winter flying - not all dressed up, the heater works well
Being able to fly any time of the day, like not having to rush at breakfast fly inn's to get back or visiting many strips each time we fly.
The climb out .. It is still awesome at each take off
Having an accurate fuel flow meter - stress free fuel management
And enjoying the installation of an iPod and good intercom
Cheers
ian