Forney and Alon added to approved model list for engine upgrade

Alpha Aviation recently received FAA approval for the addition of the Forney F-1 and F-A1 and the Alon A-2 and A2-A to the Approved Model List for its Continental O-200A engine upgrade for Ercoupes.

The STC allows owners of a 415-C, 415-CD, 415-D, 415-E, 415-G, F-1, F-1A, A-2 and A2-A aircraft to replace their aging, out of production TCM C-75 and C-85 engines with the TCM O-200A 100-hp series powerplant without the loss of Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) eligibility, according to company officials.

The O-200A engine brings with it numerous benefits, including increased power of up to 30%, a modern design that is in current production, a stronger crankcase, improved motor mounts for smooth operation, and the Marvel Schebler MA-3SPA carburetor, which is designed with an accelerator pump for easier starting and lower maintenance, Alpha Aviation officials noted.

During the certification process for the original amendment in January 2020, the previously approved installation instructions and drawings were updated, company officials noted. Changes include:

• The simplification of the right front baffle rework
• A wiring change that allows the red electric fuel pump warning light to glow at any time that power is up in the aircraft and fuel is not flowing to the header tank
• The development of an FAA approved Aircraft Flight Manual Supplement (AFMS) to enhance safety and FAA approved Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) to ensure all maintenance tasks are identified

Now available are the amended STC documentation packages and PMA approved hardware kits, which include the fuel pump, fuel pressure switch, and miscellaneous items required to accomplish the fuel system modification.

The engine, propeller, and associated hardware items remain the responsibility of the installer, as the STC permits the use of new, rebuilt, or continued time components to accomplish the TCM O-200A engine installation, according to company officials.

Additional information is available at AlphaAviation.com or by calling 800-653-5112.