Sport Pilot Talk

I'd be grateful for comments concerning the reliablity of the 914. I have heard it said that they are less reliable than the 912 ULS and, although I'd like the extra hp, I don't wish to find myself saddled with an engine that is unreliable. Comments would be appreciated.
Thanks.

There is nothing wrong with the reliability of the 914 series engines. Just like any other engine it needs to be properly set-up and maintained and you will have very few issues with it. Most people doing realize that to accuratly set up the TCU, throttle Position Sensor, and Waste Gate servo, you need to have a computer connected to your TCU thru an RS-232 port, the engine itself is not plug and play and that is a common misconseption that has led to many maintanience issues. The 914 is a very good engine and generates more power and runs smoother than any of the other 912 models, just be prepared to give a little more TLC, the your S model.

I've subsequently had a very helpful exchange of emails with the guys at Lockwood. Your views echo their own and I'm completely satisfied that the 914 is, with the proper set-up and appropriate care, as reliable as the 912.
Regards,
Chip

It does power the Predator drone.