EG33 kit planes and dune buggys

[jman050]

What is special about the EG33 that makes it a popular engine to use in kit planes and dune buggys?

[mbtoloczko]

The horizontal opposing geometry is good for airplanes. Good side-to-side balance. I suppose a V-6 geometry is ok too. I imagine though that a V-6 motor could be tall enough that it would not fit under the airplane sheet metal and obstruct view. People use all kinds of motors in dune buggies. WRX motors are very popular in dune buggies too.

[Boxer6SVX]

boxer engines are in a majority of small planes like cessna's. I believe planes are where the boxer got its fame from.

[benebob]

Originally Posted by Boxer6SVX

boxer engines are in a majority of small planes like cessna's. I believe planes are where the boxer got its fame from.

No, that would be Hitler who brought about the boxer engine . Most of the early airplanes had those round type engines. Subaru engines have been very popular since the EA series for airplanes (which last I saw was still even 20 years almost out of production remains the top choice for experimental aircraft power). The EA series of course is insanely reliable and good for about 140hp with the right set up and it lacks the issues of timing belt and such that later Subies are hampered with.

as for the buggies, I think it helps alot that it can easily be adapted to a VW tranny which for years was the buggie engine of choice but lacked that essential go fast thing... POWER.

[mikecg]

The piston lay out allows much of the engine torque to be cancelled out internally and not be transferred to the chassis. Think of the engines you see in funny cars. when you goose the throttle they twist the frame. That could cause the plane to roll with enough power. The boxer engine still has some do to spinning components, but the piston strokes cancel each other.