Not all the innovation is taking place in the very light jet and other ivory-tower sectors of aviation. One of the great things about EAA AirVenture is that recognition is given those whose more homegrown tinkering can result in technological advances for those whose flying is a little less complex than some. Take, for example, the Custom Power Plant Award winner at the 2006 fly-in — the Big Twin. Valley Engineering, of Rolla, Mo., has come up with what appears to be a viable four-cycle alternative to the noisy, smoky two-cycle engines in the 30- to 50-hp range that power a lot of ultralights. The company adapted a 990-cc V-Twin motorcycle engine for aircraft use and came up with a package that weighs a maximum of 117 lbs. (depending on configuration) and puts out a maximum of 38 hp. It’s available as a direct drive setup or with a reduction drive. The company claims the engine “will virtually eliminate all the problems associated with two-cycle engines and still deliver the same performance.”
Promising New Ultralight Engine
Key Takeaways:
- The article emphasizes that significant aviation innovation occurs not only in high-tech sectors but also through grassroots tinkering, as recognized by events like EAA AirVenture.
- Valley Engineering's "Big Twin" engine, a Custom Power Plant Award winner in 2006, exemplifies this by adapting a 990-cc V-Twin motorcycle engine for aircraft use.
- This four-cycle engine provides a viable alternative to noisy and smoky two-cycle engines in ultralights, weighing up to 117 lbs and producing up to 38 hp, aiming to eliminate associated problems while matching performance.
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