gboulton
Posts: 1862
Joined: 5/28/2005
From: La Vergne,
TN, USA
Status: offline
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I'm flying the BCMA SPE-40 on a Great Planes 25% Yak. Here's a few observations for you:
First of all, hey currently use what appears o be an aftermarket or 3rd party (or maybe BCMA) ignition. There are no markings on it. I've had extensive conversations wih Adam about this very issue. He has CH ignitions available, and has stated he will soon be moving to strictly CH ignitions on these engines. The standard ignition caused interference problems with my Futaba radio system, however A) It appears that was likely having the wrong (non-resistor) spark plug and B) I've since gone to a JR rig, and had no issues with the standard ignition.
Now, as for the engine itself:
I've been "reasonably" pleased with mine, but it's still not broken in. It starts VERY easily, NEVER (even when cold) needing more than 5-6 flips once I figured out the pattern to use.
It seems no more noisy (and less, in fact, in some cases) than other similarly sized gassers, though i have not measured its sound level with any device other than my ears.
As for power, it has hus far seemed a bit less gutsy than I'd originally expected. However, as I say, it's not broken in yet. I had been told it would be sent already broken in, but later learned this was not the case. I recently went to a smaller (18x8 from a 20x8) prop to complete this process, and the engine is definitely running stronger every time I fly now. It spins the 18x8 at approx 7600 rpm, and with a 13.5 lb GP 25% Yak, that's ALMOST enough for unlimited vertical. I'm quite certain that as I get another gallon of fuel or so through it, the motor will really loosen up and spin my 20x8 in the 7k range, more than enough.
Vibration MAY be a bit of an issue. I've noted more vibration with this engine than other gassers I've flown. Some of that may, however, be a function of running it a bit richer than normal for break-in.
Final thought on the motor: Do take care when mounting. I recently had to have a crankcase replaced as 2 engine mounts cracked. The cast aluminum is not terribly strong, and carelessness when mounting (bolts not straight, over tightening, etc) can lead to problems. I don't believe this is a signifcant issue, simply something that requires great care and attention when first installing the motor.
Outside of that, let me say this:
Given the inexpensive cost of the motor, and Adam's EXTREMELY good customer service, I highly reccomend this engine where it's appropriate. At ~ $300 to the door, ignition, muffler, and all, you can't beat the price. And Adam will flat out take care of his customers, no matter WHAT he has to do to accomplish that. Remember that he's a small business owner, and thus subject to the occaisional delays/troubles with suppliers...but from his end, if it's in his control at all, he'll bend over backwards to make and keep things right.
Hope that's some of the info you were looking for...if you have specific questions, feel free to ask. 
_____________________________
The free man will ask neither what his country can do for him nor what he can do for his country. - Milton Friedman
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RE: BCMAEngines - 
