I am building a Sonex Onex (the single place version of a Sonex) and instead of the typical AeroVee VW engine conversion that is in most Sonex aircraft, I am installing a Rotax 912. Thus I have to fabricate a custom engine mount and cowling. I have jigged up an engine mount of my own design and am interested in any feedback on it before I send it off to be welded up. The top part of the mount is what mates up to the engine ring mount on the rotax, with rubber Lord mounts in those pucks. The bottom part mates up to the firewall.

The part in the middle to house the nosewheel strut, when used with the VW, bolts to the firewall and then bolts to the VW engine mount using those two pieces that end in space coming off the nosewheel sleeve. I may just end up cutting those off, or I was also thinking of welding a tube to them to tie them into my new engine mount. I am not sure if that is overkill.

Does anybody see anything I am doing wrong before I have it welded and it is too late? Thanks.

Looks nice. What material are you using?

A group picture of all your helpers would be nice.

Murray

The tubing is 4130 .75” diameter, .049” thick

Here you are

George, the best thing you can do with that nosewheel is put it on the other end of the airplane

I think Murray wants to see the Ho(s) that made your engine mount. His curiosity is understandable, as the skillset of most Hos tends not to extend to engineering.

I think Murray wants to see the Ho(s) that made your engine mount. His curiosity is understandable, as the skillset of most Hos tends not to extend to engineering.

Used to have an Airedale
MC

George, You are having way too much fun!

In picture five, when you displace a joint like that, you can get a buckle in use. I would consider a curved truss member instead.

Warmly,
Dave

Thanks Dave! That is exactly the kind of feedback I am looking for!