I’m looking at possibility rebuilding an O320 to get the needed 180hp. Aside from a new crank for changing from FP to CS what other considerations would the engine gurus recommend? I know the 320 is lighter than the 360. Looking for input. Thanks
I had an O-320 with a Hartzell constant speed prop for years on my 20 year old RV6. At "new engine time", I went with the "340 Stroker" from ECI.
Good things and bad things to consider.
1. I needed to stay with the form factor since I have CONICAL mounts and the OLDER "320 cowl" which is more "snug" (as in problem fitting an O360. NOTE: I had an O-360 that I could have put on but that would have required changing the engine mount, cowl, and wiring.
2. The engine produces about 177-178 HP based on the data I have.
3. You can hear/feel the difference in the "stroke". Not as smooth as the O-320.
4. For constant speed, you will NOT be able to get a supported prop from Hartzell (unless things changed recently). Whirlwind has an offering.
5. I think max/peak torque is at 2500 RPM.
6. It pulls hard. Very good climb.
7. Initially had a carburetor. Many problems. Switched to an AirFlow Performance fuel injected system.
In the end, it would have been better for ME to just overhaul and keep the 160 HP original engine. There were SEVERAL unforeseen issues that kept the plane grounded for a long time:
Several prop changes.
Big issues with the carburetor and EGTs.
Work required to fit the fuel injection system under the "320 cowl" (Don Riviera and I worked to put a package together that WILL fit.)
YMMV.