Good point, and even more for a Jet Cat. If I have my info correct, the Black Mamba is really a re-done older generation TJT something or other...basically quite similar to the old, original Super Eagle. The Mamba I believe has the "old style" stainless steel combustion chamber ETC. While it is a proven design, it lags the new generation of turbines that employ inconel (did I spell that correctly?) in the construction, plus the fuel economy is worse than the "new stuff".
Now, it is cheaper, so if money is the bottom line...it's a looker.
Guys flying King Tech love them too...and it's a great price...just not in the thrust range you need down the road.
King Tech, the Mamba and Jet Central all use the same ECU so that's a bonus...they all work well.
In the end, they are all good...just some are better than others...and you ultimately get what you pay for I guess. Sometimes it's cheaper in the long run to just buy what you really want/need and buy it once than buying "something acceptable" the first time over having to buy a 2nd engine later to complete your 2nd project.
Lastly, consider a turbine similar to what your Mates are flying and are happy with. That way you can get help with it if you need it.
Cheers,
Beave
ORIGINAL: molo_30
You'll be paying a lot more than you want to spend to buy a Jet central. If you want something in the 30lb range at reasonable prices make sure you have a good look around. Talk to people actually flying the engines.
Its the only way you will get unbiased opinions. We dealers can tell you all day that the engines we sell are the best but until you actually speak with the end user its all pointless.
My 2 cents.