WAM 120 Flier answer
You've probably heard enough from me already, but in case you haven't, here's some "real world" information about mine: 985 lb weight with basic interior. 160 mph TAS at 8,500', about 4.8 gph at 65% power. Starts right up in cold weather (so far I've started at 27F, so not THAT cold, but I live in NV). No mixture, carb heat to deal with, just get in, wait for glow plugs, and start. I like the safety of JetA or diesel in case of fire. I'm using about 1 qt of oil every 12-14 hours. I've got 110 hours on it so far and no hiccups.
The Wilkcsh factory has been super supportive and helpful, and very professional. I like the CI-Log instrumentation with data logger. after every 5-6 flights, I send the data to the factory, which they convert and send back to me as Excel sheet with all engine parameters for every second of the run - very cool.
Another good thing about the engine is that it is all mechanical, requires no electrical power to run.
Downsides: I had to have my exhaust protrude about 8" below the belly of the plane to keep the soot from getting all over the belly. once I extended it, I've had no soot. It smokes a little on take-off and initial climb, until I back off the power, then it cleans right up. I have had several radio calls about the smoke, to which I respond "It's a diesel, it's supposed to smoke!". The factory is working on a different head with a new combustion design to take care of the smoke. Its not a big deal as far as I'm concerned.
Installation was fairly straightforward. WAM provided the engine/gear mount, made by the same guy who makes them for Van's and it fit perfectly. I used a Rotary Cowl from James Aircraft, which I modified somewhat to work with the WAM. There are some pictures of my installation on other threads, but if you would like, I could try to post more.
Engine cooling was not a problem from the beginning. I mounted my radiator just behind the engine, down low, with a plenum carrying air from the front scoop, around the head/oil sump. I did have to tinker with the intercooler in order to get the air chest temps right, since they were a bit high at first. But once I got the right size intercooler for my installation, and got enough air to it, I've had no problems, even taking off at 110F ambient.
I'm real happy with my WAM 120 so far. If there are any other questions, just let me know.
Kurt