Rotax has released a new oil filter, P/N 825 012, that is 3.4 mm longer than the filter it replaced. If you have ever changed the oil and filter on your A1 Katana, you know how tight the clearance is to the exhaust header especially with the exhaust wrap in place. During my last oil change, I had to loosen the exhaust header and move it out of the way to replace the filter. Now I know why.
I contacted Diamond Canada and they are aware of the issue. Diamond Austria has redesigned the exhaust system to accommodate the new filter, but Diamond Canada is still reviewing the change. They gave no indication whether or not they will do the same.
Aside from being much more difficult to complete, this forces owners to utilize an A&P for oil changes given the need to move the exhaust header. Hopefully, there will be an inexpensive solution forthcoming.
__________________
Krea Ellis
DA-20-A1 N853DF "Princess Amelia"
DA-40XLS N616ML
New Rotax Oil Filter
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- krellis
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Re: New Rotax Oil Filter
Yes, except the filters were updated 5/24/11, so it is unlikely that any old stock will still be around.
- Alex
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Re: New Rotax Oil Filter
I am having my cracked canopy replaced and when it comes back I'll be due for an oil change. I haven't opened the new filter box yet to see the bigger size, but after doing several successful oil changes, I also hate to have to involve a mechanic from now on.
On another subject, you mentioned something about "exhaust wrap". I know it's supposed to be there, but I have never seen a Katana wrapped up. Any chance you could post a picture of yoiur engine so I can have my mechanic take care if it for me?
On another subject, you mentioned something about "exhaust wrap". I know it's supposed to be there, but I have never seen a Katana wrapped up. Any chance you could post a picture of yoiur engine so I can have my mechanic take care if it for me?
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Al GIbbs
DA20-A1 N858DF KTOA
DA20-A1 N858DF KTOA
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Re: New Rotax Oil Filter
I don't have a current picture, but here is the link to the Diamond Service Bulletin that describes the exhaust wrap - http://www.diamondaircraft.com/library/ ... proved.pdf
I'll try to find a picture to attach but hopefully this will give your A&P enough detail.
Krea Ellis
N853DF
I'll try to find a picture to attach but hopefully this will give your A&P enough detail.
Krea Ellis
N853DF
- krellis
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Re: New Rotax Oil Filter
Disappointed, but not surprised.
Finally, all these years later, I get the word from Diamond Canada. "At this time we will not be moving forward with any changes to the DA20A1 exhaust installation." To their credit, they gave me part numbers for an HK36 three piece exhaust riser, but I have no idea if this solves the oil filter clearance problem or will even fit on my DA20-A1. Further, they won't give me an NTO letter nor installation drawings. Great.
So it only adds to my belief that Diamond is mostly interested in the latest shiny object and when they no longer produce your airplane model, they will pretty much abandon you. I've been told that my perceptions are not reality, but I think they are, at least for the A1 Katana.
Finally, all these years later, I get the word from Diamond Canada. "At this time we will not be moving forward with any changes to the DA20A1 exhaust installation." To their credit, they gave me part numbers for an HK36 three piece exhaust riser, but I have no idea if this solves the oil filter clearance problem or will even fit on my DA20-A1. Further, they won't give me an NTO letter nor installation drawings. Great.
So it only adds to my belief that Diamond is mostly interested in the latest shiny object and when they no longer produce your airplane model, they will pretty much abandon you. I've been told that my perceptions are not reality, but I think they are, at least for the A1 Katana.