EAA Sport Aviation

Documentation (operator’s manual and repair manual) is complete and comprehensive. Modern computer-aided design programs allow extensive documentation to be produced relatively easily, and UL has made full use of these capabilities, and made them part of the accompanying paperwork. E-mail and telephone support is also offered.

Though the UL350i is the current best-seller, the 260i has the largest installed base, with some 200 examples in the air, powering 35 different airframes. Gus flew his 260i-powered CH 750 to Sun ’n Fun this spring. Other popular airframes already flying with the ULPower 260i engine include the Super Pulsar, Thatcher CX4, Bushbaby Explorer, Raven, X-Air, Dragonfly, Apollo Fox, Esqual, Europa, Avid Flyer, and Kitfox. The new 350i is in at least one Savage Cub, a Just Highlander, and a Polliwagen.

Why are builders attracted to the UL engines? They’re traditionally laid out, yet modern in metallurgy and technology; they have a good power-to-weight ratio; their physical size is compatible with many airframes; and they’re priced reasonably, starting at about $16,600 for a UL260i (including U.S. delivery) up to about $21,700 for the 350iS, as of publication date. With a 1,500-hour suggested time between overhauls, their longevity is adequate, especially for sport flying.

Tim Kern, EAA 852075, is a private pilot and certified
aviation manager and consultant. You can find him online at
www.TimKern.com. Erick Crewes also contributed to this story.

For more information about these engines, visit www.ULPower.com or www.FlyWithGus.net.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM KERN

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