A Magnificent Engine Option

It took me a while to find a solution for replacing the engine in my plane. I was lucky to find an option that won't completely break the bank; however, the first options I came across were very expensive. One of the great parts of building a kit aircraft is the ability to keep costs low. A quick glance at our LSA Engine Comparison page tells me that a new engine for even the simplest kits can still be very expensive though. Thanks to an article in the Kitsap Sun, I just found out about an intriguing and economical engine option for kit biulders: the MagVair by Magnificent Machines LLC.

Magnificent Machines is owned and operated by Brady McCormick, a professional machinist who started his business by just offering welding, fabrication and similar services. He realized that rebuilding old Chevrolet Corvair engines and using them to drive propellers could be a good business. A friend suggested he call his engines "Magvairs" and he's been turning $100 scrapyard junk into valuable aircraft motors ever since. He says that overhauling the engine yourself could run as low as $4000 and suggests that there are some finished engines on the market for under $8000.

McCormick isn't the first person to realize the value of Corvair engines. They actually have a small, but loyal following in the experimental community. I'd heard about them, but didn't realize there was so much support for people interested in using these engines. McCormick met Corvair authority William Wynne and the two realized they share the same goals. They've started doing seminars together at air shows to promote the idea of using Corvair engines and educate/assist builders. Both McCormick and Wynne offer high-quality engine components for builders.

McCormick is building his own MagVair powered Zenith STOL CH750 to do back country flying and missionary work. I'm looking forward to hearing how it performs.

These engines certainly offer a chance to make flying easier and more affordable. Even environmentalists have to give MagVair owners credit for recycling. It looks like I'm going to have to go on a scavenger hunt to find some Corvair powered aircraft at Oshkosh next year.