Hi Tom

I have a big problem with my 33% 260/ZDZ-80 RV-J/KS-95 canister. I have 11 inches header and it broke 3 times in 10 flights. I have tried tig welding and i replaced the flexible part by rigid header and the last time, it broke at the exhaust flange.

I spoke with an IMAC pilote today who got the same problem with another plane and DA-100. He solved it by reinforcing the engine box. It reduced the vibrations.

Have you already met a problem like that or do you have any recommendations before i modify the engine box?
Daniel

I have not heard of any problem like this with a 260, but it sounds plausible. As we all know large singles can be shakers, canister headers are known to be less than perfect. Combine the two and you have a potential problem.

TF

I have just let an experienced builder and IMAC flier on the phone and he recommend me to add some strengt to the engine box. The super ZDZ-80 could twist the box. I'll let you know how it works for me. I'll probably add 1/8'' plywood in the top and bottom of the engine box.

Daniel