For years the Sonex aircraft community has asked for a Rotax engine option. Sonex responded a few years ago by offering a dedicated motor mount for their Sonex, Waiex and Xenos models, both the legacy and “B” model versions. That allowed builders to attach the engine to their airframe but the cooling and plumbing details remained for each builder to noodle. Enter builder Casey Cooper.
Cooper worked closely with Sonex over a years-long period to develop a Rotax installation for his A-Model Sonex that was both functional and elegant. Casey estimates he has 200 hours of flight testing in his system, the third iteration of which he found met his goals. Cooper flight tested his system in the heat of his home airport, Tucson, AZ, and on four flights to AirVenture.
Cooper’s newly-formed company, Cooper Aircraft Corporation, offer kits ranging from the oil cooler and radiator with shroud, to the thermostat, plumbing and fittings necessary to plumb the systems. Prices range from $1350 to $1950.00. Delivery time is estimated at 5 to 6 weeks. Kits are available through Cooper Aircraft Corporation or Sonex.
Cooper’s Sonex will be on display in the Warp Drive booth (booth 906) at AirVenture. For more information, visit www.cooperaircraftcorporation.com
