Installation of SOLO 2350B engine for LAK17A & LAK19
Self starting and avoiding outlandings is certainly a very good reason for instalation of engine, but an engine offers numerous additional benefits. For example, it allows pilots to participate in gliding safaris, explore wave or simply extend flights into areas otherwise beyond reach.
Now both LAK17A and LAK19 are available with retractable engine!
First was intended to be this self-sustaining or so-called "turbo" system. But flight test show more than was expected. Due to glider low weight, and with a specially developed propeller, Sportine's own design, glider is easily able to take off from normal runway. Climb rate is more than 2m/s and on altitude of 3000m is still more than 1m/s!
The SOLO type 2350B, 19.6 kW - 28 hp, two cylinder, two stroke engine is extended and retracted by means of an electrical spindle drive assisted by a gas strut. Doors on the fuselage are driven with small electromotor and are closed during engine run, so that performance are as good as possible.
An ILEC multi-function control unit operates system. It provide information on RPM, battery voltage, extreme positions of the power plant etc.
Start of the engine in the air is with decompression handle and wind milling effect of small direct driven 2 bladed propeller. On the ground is possible to start the engine with the rope. Probably also electric starter could be possible as an option.
-It combine good points both self-sustaining and self-launching sailplane
-Additional glider weights is only about 30kg+8lt of fuel in fuselage tank, so there is practically no handling and performance difference
-Also already produced LAK17A or LAK19 could be retrofitted!
-Certification is on the way for self-launcher (without water ballast) and self-sustaining (with water ballast)
