REFLECTOR: Investigation into Engine Failure

[JOHN LUNNING]

Hi Alex,
It's been a real struggle trying to get the engine rebuilt. I had to have the cylinders bored out .030 over to clean up the damage. Finding pistons has been a challenge. It appears that Crossflow used stock Subaru pistons which are cast pistons and are not recommended for turbo charging. I'm now having some custom forged pistons made. Machine shops now a days don't seem to be in much of a hurry to do anything. I have  a few mods planned to help cool things better, but there is still the root issue of the ECU and its programming. I'd be interested to know more about your ECU and how it's doing.
 
All the damage to the airframe are repaired, just waiting on the engine rebuild. Once I get the engine put back together, I'll update you more.
 
John



Date: Mon, 4 Aug 2008 23:28:28 -0500From: velocity_pilot at verizon.netTo: reflector at tvbf.orgSubject: Re: REFLECTOR: Investigation into Engine Failure








Hey John-
 
Any other update on your situation? I have chosen to replace the ECU I bought from Crossflow with Tracy Crooks unit- has dual ECU’s and programs from a small panel without need for laptop- uses less sensors too- let me know what the outcome was on your unit if you get a chance.
 
Thanks,
 
Alex
 




From: reflector-bounces at tvbf.org [mailto:reflector-bounces at tvbf.org] On Behalf Of JOHN LUNNINGSent: Tuesday, February 05, 2008 5:17 PMTo: reflector at tvbf.orgSubject: REFLECTOR: Investigation into Engine Failure
 
For those who are interested in the failure of the Crossflow Subaru engine on the 2nd flight of my VelocityXL. Initial investigation of the engine is showing an internal mechanical failure in the engine. I'm getting low compression on a couple cylinders and I'm get burnt oil out of the crankcase vent on one side. The engine did fire up again but was running very rough and I could hear mechanical tapping noises from inside. All external systems appear to be in good working order, fuel system and fuel pumps good with good pressure. The electrical and computer seem to be working correctly. I won't know too much more until I tear it down in a couple weeks. As usual for Crossflow, they were very quick to respond when I told them the good news about my 1st flight, but have yet to be able to get a hold of them to discuss the failure of the 2nd flight. I doubt highly if I will get any factory support in diagnosing and repairing the problem. Strong possibility I may have to abandon the project if I can't get the engine to run reliably. I'll be starting on the leading edge damage this weekend and should only take a couple week to repair. Take warning to all those who have or are considering Crossflow for your engine. For those who are stuck, I'll be happy provide any support or info you might need. John LunningN44VLSan Antonio, TX



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