Wren 44 Kero Start Upgrade
08-18-2013, 11:25 AM
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Wren 44 Gold Kero Start Upgrade
About 7 years ago I had one of the very first Wren 44 Gold turbines of the higher thrust variety (over 10lbs). Amazing engine and power from such a small unit. It had performed perfectly until recently, when aftermany hours of use it started to ‘blow out’ when you opened the throttle.
So off it when to Wren and was diagnosed with a NGV problem.Well, as it was back there and it had given such amazing service (no bearing changes or servicing in 7 years) I decided to treat the engine to a full upgrade and had a full Kero auto start fitted by Wren.
The turbine came back looking like new, (see pictures) truly a beautifully engineered unit.
I fitted it back into my Hawk, plumbed it up and did a test start. Following the instructions for priming, and then ...go for it.
Well, the start sequence was slightly longer than non Kero but awesome, a bit of clicking and a rumble as the Kero ignited...brilliant.
I had 3 test starts, (just for the sound of it) and then it was test flown.
Power was similar to previous and the Hawk performed as well as it always does.
What I did notice was that the throttle response seemed ‘sharper’on landing approach.
If you have a Gold 44 I would highly recommend the Kero start upgrade, I know Wren have a ‘do it yourself’ kit but I would suggest contacting them first to confirm your turbines suitably for that kit.
All in all, a very happy customer, well done Wren.
So off it when to Wren and was diagnosed with a NGV problem.Well, as it was back there and it had given such amazing service (no bearing changes or servicing in 7 years) I decided to treat the engine to a full upgrade and had a full Kero auto start fitted by Wren.
The turbine came back looking like new, (see pictures) truly a beautifully engineered unit.
I fitted it back into my Hawk, plumbed it up and did a test start. Following the instructions for priming, and then ...go for it.
Well, the start sequence was slightly longer than non Kero but awesome, a bit of clicking and a rumble as the Kero ignited...brilliant.
I had 3 test starts, (just for the sound of it) and then it was test flown.
Power was similar to previous and the Hawk performed as well as it always does.
What I did notice was that the throttle response seemed ‘sharper’on landing approach.
If you have a Gold 44 I would highly recommend the Kero start upgrade, I know Wren have a ‘do it yourself’ kit but I would suggest contacting them first to confirm your turbines suitably for that kit.
All in all, a very happy customer, well done Wren.
Last edited by GrayUK; 08-18-2013 at 11:34 AM.
08-18-2013, 11:53 AM
#2
It had performed perfectly until recently, when aftermany hours of use it started to ‘blow out’ when you opened the throttle.
I have had exactly the same issue with one of my old, manual start 44's & have been corresponding with Wren to have it repaired, yes it seems to be an
NGV problem. I have been busy with other things & put it aside but I must get it on it's way.
I'll pay the price for my slackness, at the time I first enquired the A$ was 68p, now it's 58p.
- John.
08-18-2013, 10:40 PM
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Yes, I know what you mean, I love mine as well.
As for wet starts, so far, not the slightest indication of one.
The starting sequence is very gentle and progressive.
I am flying at the British National Championships this weekend so it will get a few more starts and cool downs.
I willadd more feedback on here as I collect more info, but so far I am very impressed.
Paul G
As for wet starts, so far, not the slightest indication of one.
The starting sequence is very gentle and progressive.
I am flying at the British National Championships this weekend so it will get a few more starts and cool downs.
I willadd more feedback on here as I collect more info, but so far I am very impressed.
Paul G
Last edited by GrayUK; 08-18-2013 at 10:49 PM.
