L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

[SteveR]

Can anyone who has done this tell me about your experience? I'm thinking about buying an L-2M that I would like to upgrade to a C-85, C-90 or O-200. I spoke with Terry Bowden earlier today and it doesn't sound too bad. Is there any waiting on the FAA, or is it a done deal as soon as you have the paperwork and correct signatures in the logs? It seems pretty straightforward after talking to Terry. I only want the extra HP, don't need a starter or generator.

Does anyone have any suggestions on where to find an C-85, C-90 or O-200?

[astjp2]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

You need approval before you do the modifications, once you have the approval, then go for it. Tim

Oh yeah, I prefer the 90 or the o-200 because you can use some of the same prop's as the 65...

[SteveR]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

Approval from who, the FSDO?

Good info on the props.

[Bigdog]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

You need the STC or approved data that Terry can provide. It gets referenced on a 337 that goes straight to OKC. The installation gets approved by an IA on the 337 and logs.

[n6346m]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

Steve,
I converted my L-2B to a C-90 using Terry's STC. It is very easy to accomplish and the instructions are thorough. Your A & P can do the installation and the AI signs off the 337 that goes directly to OKC, as previously mentioned, no FSDO involvement. I prefer the C-90 because it not only puts out 95HP (five minute limit according to TCDS) it puts out its power at a lower RPM than the O-200. Since I plan on eventually putting the airplane on floats, it should help to get off the water sooner. With a fixed pitch prop, your RPMs start out at your static RPM (reduced horsepower) and gradually increase to full rated RPM (full horsepower) as your airspeed increases. Refer to the horsepower charts of both engines for comparison. In addition I believe that the O-200 needs different motor mount cushions because the mounting lugs are different from the A-65. I may be wrong on this point, so if I am someone please correct me.

[astjp2]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

Yes, the 65 is conical rubbers and the C90-16 and o-200 use lord mounts. Lord mounts Move the engine forward 5/8" and reduces the vibrations that transfer to the airframe by about 2/3rds. Tim

[SteveR]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

Yes, the 65 is conical rubbers and the C90-16 and o-200 use lord mounts. Lord mounts Move the engine forward 5/8" and reduces the vibrations that transfer to the airframe by about 2/3rds. Tim

Where do I get the correct Lord mounts?

Does the extra 5/8" cause any issues with the cowl typically?

What climb rate can one expect with an O-200 in an 850lbs L-2?

[Nefj40]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

Here's some adapters, can't answer the rest.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Continental-O-200-to-C-85-Engine-Mount-Adapters-O200/282357542042?hash=item41bdd22c9a:m:mlRLLwIKAJVEiRaWTOZ_TbA&vxp=mtr

[astjp2]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

Look at the lord/barry mounts for a C-150, those are the ones you need. Tim

[SteveR]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

The O-200A I'm looking at has a starter and alternator, which I don't intend to use. Where can I get a block off plate?

[LostnSpace]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

I am sure I have one, let me check in my toolbox tomorrow and I'll get back, gary

[SteveR]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

Great, thanks Gary.

[LostnSpace]

Re: L-2 A-65 to O-200A conversion

Found the cover for the starter p/n 40441, NIB, let me check another room tomorrow and see if I can find the generator cover, gary