Another pmag question

[DanH]

"First time builder" is a tough label. We have folks who need a manual for a screwdriver, while we see other first timers collect Lindys.

Let's assume we're speaking for the first group. To get 90% of the good with maximum simplicity, probably a non-impulse Slick paired with the Lycoming-branded version of the Surefly. They would share the same aviation harness and plugs, the wiring requirement is very simple, and the local A&P will be comfortable. The Lycoming EI has a sealed timing advance schedule specific to the engine model, one less thing for the new guy to worry about. Both have corporate infrastructure for support, a detail often overlooked. Our game has products which may be orphaned when a principal retires or dies.

We're all aware of Champion's intent to introduce a self-generating mag. If/when it happens, it may be an obvious choice.

BTW, don't get the idea that I hate a P-mag. Some aspects of the design are really dumb, and admittedly, I have no patience for fanboys. However, everything could be fixed with a little effort, and who knows, Hartzell may be looking at it right now. P-mag has thrived in the marketplace for two reasons. One, self-generation may have limited practical value in its current iteration, but it's a very powerful sales feature. Two, Brad and his crew did a truly marvelous job supporting the product, something I admire very much. I hope they made a pot of money when they sold, because they deserved it.

 

[danny]

I used a Pmag on one side based on anecdotal evidence that it would start better and Lycoming sold them that way.
I don’t have enough experience to say if it does but starts well. Most of what I know about airplanes is what I read on VAF. Anecdotally I see just as many or more issues with the other electronic ignitions.

If I did it again I probably would have copied you.

What is your recommendation for a first time builder?

That's the way Superior came and, yes, it starts way easier. Knock on wood.
danny

 

[Mikeyb]

"First time builder" is a tough label. We have folks who need a manual for a screwdriver, while we see other first timers collect Lindys.

Let's assume we're speaking for the first group. To get 90% of the good with maximum simplicity, probably a non-impulse Slick paired with the Lycoming-branded version of the Surefly. They would share the same aviation harness and plugs, the wiring requirement is very simple, and the local A&P will be comfortable. The Lycoming EI has a sealed timing advance schedule specific to the engine model, one less thing for the new guy to worry about. Both have corporate infrastructure for support, a detail often overlooked. Our game has products which may be orphaned when a principal retires or dies.

We're all aware of Champion's intent to introduce a self-generating mag. If/when it happens, it may be an obvious choice.

BTW, don't get the idea that I hate a P-mag. Some aspects of the design are really dumb, and admittedly, I have no patience for fanboys. However, everything could be fixed with a little effort, and who knows, Hartzell may be looking at it right now. P-mag has thrived in the marketplace for two reasons. One, self-generation may have limited practical value in its current iteration, but it's a very powerful sales feature. Two, Brad and his crew did a truly marvelous job supporting the product, something I admire very much. I hope they made a pot of money when they sold, because they deserved it.

I guess I have the worst of both worlds. A pre 2022 Pmag and an Impulse coupled Slick.

While we are on the screwdriver: Those Phoenix rising clamp screw connections are ubiquitous in high reliability industrial control and data acquisition systems. I do have significant experience with them and if the wires are stripped to the proper length, wire strands not splayed and strain relieved like Pmag instructs they are very reliable. My MGL RDAC that is mounted on the engine mount uses them. No issues.