Flitzer Sport Flying Association

HCI Radial

Anzani-powered Flitzer

Question:

Would this be an option for a Flitzer?
http://www.hciaviation.com/

Answer:

February 23, 2003

Dear Flitzerfan,

Re: Your query regarding the suitability of the HCI radial motor as a Flitzer powerplant: as far as I am aware that engine provides sufficient output to power a Flitzer quite well, and its weight is within the limitations. There are, however, more attractive motors available, which, if cowled sympathetically, would do justice to the airframe, which was specifically designed around a VW ('flat') motor, eg. the Subaru water cooled unit, with a reduction drive. Currently VW-derived motors, such as the 80 hp. Aero-Vee motor, available from Aero Conversions, or one of the Great Plains options, may also be regarded as ideal Flitzer engines.

http://www.aeroconversions.com
http://www.greatplainsas.com/

Unlike modern fully-enclosed pressure-cowl installations, in the Flitzer these motors would have their heads, and a proportion of the barrels exposed, as a more vintage representation of lightplane aero-engine installations from the 1920s.

In the longer term, it is hoped that Flitzer-Aero will be able to offer a very attractive radial engine alternative to the ubiquitous horizontally-opposed range, with five cylinders, delivering 80+ hp.

Meanwhile, here is an impression of the prototype as it might look with a 3-cylinder Anzani.

Keep faith, the story is just beginning!

Best wishes,

Lynn Williams