912S/ULS vs 912IS

by John Redman in General Tech Discussion 8 years ago

Beginning the build on my S-20 and I am torn between these two engines. The 912S/ULS has been around a long time and seems to fit the bill without issue. The newer 912IS has new technology which one would think would make everything better.

I have heard rumors over the past few years of hard to start with the 912IS as well as running rough at idle. Maybe this was just back when it was a new product but by now I would think all of that is behind us now.

Please no flame wars on this is better than that. Just solid advice based on experience. Curious to hear what people say.

Thanks

Re: 912S/ULS vs 912IS

by Glenn Martin » 8 years ago

Glenn Martin

3 287 824

Hi John,
I have a 912IS with 280 hours on it. It is the easiest to start and smoothest Rotax I have ever used. It also has more usuable power than a ULS and slightly more power (by a couple of HP). It burns significantly less fuel. Where I fly there are dozens of 912's and many have had issues with Sprag clutches, mainly due to difficult starting, when the carb sync goes off. This cannot happen with an engine that does not have carbs of course.

The only down sides are that it is a bit more expensive, you need a larger battery, and there are less people/mechanics that know how to, and have the right equipment for servicing.

In my opinion it is a no brainer, go for the modern tech.

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Re: 912S/ULS vs 912IS

by Jim Flock » 8 years ago

Jim Flock

13 172 189

I have 40 hours on my new 912iS and it has performed flawlessly. Highly recommend.

Aviation Real Estate Specialist & iRMT

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Re: 912S/ULS vs 912IS

by Glenn Dugger » 8 years ago

Glenn Dugger

4 20 3

In my opinion, this is not a simple decision. You're gonna pay for the little bit of power and economy over the 912ULS. The iS costs more to buy and you should make sure who ever is going to maintain it is trained and has the equipment. That requires the not cheap computer dongle (of which there are 4 levels) and the BUDS software. Just make sure you know what you're getting into. The iS is a nice improvement over the ULS but is high tech for sure.

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912S/ULS vs 912IS

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