Well, this certainly has gotten interesting. I understand what Flaphappy initially intended to broach: it is remarkable (if not surprising) that DA doesn't have a more active information distribution process with current customers. In most cases, the shipping and sales records certainly exist to distributors and direct customers and if it comes to sending out postcards that could be done. If the problem was considered serious enough a note on the website would get the word out quickly.

However, from what I've seen and heard the nature of the "defects" with the DA 85 do not always manifest in ways requiring a blanket recall.

Any product can fail. I don't think anyone ever said DA makes the best most foolproof products. In my experience that is not true. I agree with those who believe DA gives the best service possible. In my experience parts and repair service are done quickly, and often exceed expectations.

I've got two DA 85's. One with a SN of around 400 if memory serves, the other a SN of about 1500. Both shake like crazy. Both provide tons of power and make me smile every time I fly them. The first one needed to go back for a thrust plate clearance issue within 1 month of purchase (from Chief). I eventually sent it back for the piston upgrade and also aluminum carb mount screws to steel replacements.

There are 5 DA 85's in my club, and 4 have been sent back for upgrades. DA is always very receptive to questions by phone, and responsive to service. That is what gives them the edge in worldwide small engine game. I think they realized this early, and bank on this reputation.

I don't use my engines in "critical" applications, nor do I fly them in ways that pose threats to myself or spectators should I lose an engine. If people are using them this way I expect they take steps to mitigate known problems with their equipment, and would do the research and experimentation needed to get the required systems reliability.

As I said, any product can fail. To extend, here's another example: I own and operate around a dozen Saito engines from .72 to 1.80 in size. I love them. However in recent history there were several that came with bearings that failed within 1 month of purchase. I did the swaps myself cause it was faster for me to do with what I considered superior parts, and I didn't want to wait for service. Others in my club had similar failures. I expect Saito had a batch of "rusty" bearings and didn't do effective QA which would have prevented the issue. AND/OR the bearings they choose simply are substandard.

In any case, did I expect Saito to issue recalls? No. Granted these are less expensive motors, and less is at risk with engine failure. But still they are among the most expensive powerplants I own and one would like to think the makers of these do everything possible to prevent and rectify such mistakes. To an extent, they do.