RS Flight Systems’ EMU and SLPC makes an already perfect combo even better!

The very versatile JUST XL STOL

Ok, so let’s get some things cleared up before we begin. This is no ordinary Just XL. But I am sure regular readers would have figured this out for it to make a mention on this site. The aircraft is powered by a 915iS Rotax® engine. Wow! you say, that’s not new – but hear me out. Power is one thing – the ability to control that power effortlessly throughout the flight is what makes this installation special. This Just XL has the RS Flight Systems Single Lever Power Control (SLPC) and Engine Management Unit (EMU) installed.

Ok in layman’s terms, the EMU works with the propeller governor to control the pitch of propeller throughout the flight based on the throttle input from the pilot (Yes – the pilot is always in control). This is meant to do a few things. First, it simplifies your flight. Less things to try and calculate while flying. Because you are always flying with the propeller in the right “angle” your fuel consumption should be better. Yes, if you push the plane the fuel will still burn at the normal rate…

Enough talking. If you have questions after this, please send them in. It is always good to talk to someone about why they did something, how did the install go and did, in this case , give them the performance they were looking for?

Chris Peet

Without further ado, let us introduce you to Chris Peet using a Q&A session from a few weeks ago.

Q: Chris, last summer you built up your Just XL with the Rotax® 915iS and the RS Flight Systems Single Lever Power Control system. Why did you choose the Just XL kit plane?

A: I live in a very rural part of the United States, and I was looking for an aircraft that could access the back country effectively and efficiently. It needed to have the flexibility to transition from tundra tires to skis in the winter. It also needed to be capable of mounting floats to take advantage of the lakes and rivers that make up a large part of my region. I wanted side by side seating because no one wants to sit in the “back seat”. Finally, it had to have a meaningful useful load that would allow two people and their equipment to explore the back country. The Just Aircraft SuperStol XL fits this mission perfectly.

Q: Why did you choose the Rotax® 915iS as the power plant and which propeller do you use?

A: The Rotax® 915iS was the logical choice for the SuperStol XL. The 141 hp, turbo charged, fuel injected engine brings a level of performance, reliability and safety to the airframe that exceeded any other option. I paired the 915 with a variable pitch, 80-inch, 2-bladed composite propeller from MT. I have experience with a constant speed propeller and appreciate the way a pilot can control the propeller in order to maximize performance and fuel efficiency. It didn’t make sense to have a 915 without a constant speed propeller. The quest to find the best way to control the propeller is what led.

Q: How many hours have you already flown with your aircraft? And what is your experience with the RS Flight Systems Single Lever Power Control system?

A: I currently have 150 flight hours on my SuperStol and the single lever control system has performed flawlessly. The wiring harness, key switch, and EMU work together to maximize the power of the 915 in all phases of flight. The EMU is the only place I have to look for all information relating to engine performance. As such, my instrument panel is simple and uncluttered.

Q: How do you feel about the performance of the system? Does the 915iS in combination with the SLPC get the maximum power out of the Just XL

A: There is no question that the SLPC allows me to get the most that the 915 has to offer. This in turn allows the SuperStol wing, leading edge slats and fowler flaps to perform as they were intended.  The key however is that the SLPC allows me to maximize the performance of the 915 in all phases of flight. I don’t have to choose a pitch angle on my propeller before a flight even begins and then live with it for the entire flight. When I need max power at take-off the SLPC delivers. When I want a fuel-efficient cruise the SLPC delivers. When I need to climb in order to avoid a ridge line the SLPC delivers. In short, I really cannot imagine my airplane without the SLPC. If a pilot cannot effectively manage the power of the 915 and harness that power to a propeller then it is just wasted potential. The SLPC is the perfect interface between engine and propeller that maximizes potential.

Q: Chris, let’s talk about safety. What are the biggest advantages of the Single Lever Power Control regarding failsafe performance in your eyes?

A: Increased performance often brings increased complexity. Increased complexity can bring additional points of failure. One of the biggest advantages of the SLPCis that it decreases complexity in the cockpit without a corresponding decrease in performance. The SLPC allows the pilot to concentrate on flying without the distractions of propeller rpm and fuel mixture control. For me, that means I can give more attention to avoiding the rocks on the sandbar or the logs in the clearing.  

Q: Would you recommend the RS Flight Systems Single Lever Power Control System to other kit plane builders?

A: Absolutely. Experimental Aviation means you get to put the best technology available today into your airplane. The RS Flight System SLPC is exactly that. Make it part of your builder’s plan and enjoy the benefits of that safe, simple technology.

Closing: Chris, thank you for your feedback. We wish you awesome flights and many happy landings with your SuperStol!

Custom Avionics with the RS Flight Systems EMU

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Author: William