Apr 11, 2025
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ELECTRONIC IGNITION SYSTEM (EIS)
Rid yourself of tempermental magneto problems - upgrade your aircraft - with Electroair EIS!
We recently interviewed Paul Smolinski, owner of Twin Commanche FRCC after he flew his plane for about 65 hours with the Electroair system installed. Here's what he had to say:
YAS Question: Paul, you had us install install an Electroair electronic ignition system (EIS) on your Twin Commanche last winter. How did you decide to choose this particular manufacture of EIS?
Paul Smolinski: We did a great deal of market research on which EIS to invest in.
The “Deciding Factors” for us to go with Electroair was that:
- Their system seemed to be the most comprehensive available; and
- Their system was one of the very few units that also incorporates variable ignition timing based on throttle position; and
- Yorkton Aircraft, our local maintenance provider, was an approved installer and I knew the install would be competently done and we would have after sale support.
YAS Question: You have approximately 65 hours of flying with this system. Have you seen any benefits?
Paul Smolinski: Yes, immediately we noticed:
- Quicker and easier starting as a result of a much stronger spark being delivered; and
- Easier “hot starts”; and
- Smoother at idle power; and
4.On “mag check”, almost no RPM drop when the magneto is taken “off line”.
Furthermore, by removing/replacing the one magneto, this eliminates the annoying 500-hour magneto overhaul requirement and expense. However, in the unlikely event of the EIS failing, we still do have a magneto system for backup.
YAS Question: You mention the stronger spark. Electroair promotes the fact that their system enables a more complete fuel burn because of this. Has this been your experience?
Paul Smolinski: Yes, we are seeing evidence of this on our fuel flow gauge as well as on our engine monitor.
YAS Question: So, you like your engine monitor too?
Paul Smolinski: Definitely. As we all know, we are flying airplanes with technology that was first introduced in the 30 and 40's. The planes work fine but there are so many upgrades available now that can help us to better manage our aircraft and protect our investment. As an example, with the EIS and an engine monitor on board:
- I am completely aware of all engine parameters at all times; and
- I can monitor my fuel burn and make informed pilot operating decisions; and
- I can talk much more knowledgably with the maintenance shop; and
- I never have to worry about getting stranded somewhere because of a failing, old technology, temperamental magneto.
It just makes so much sense to add these upgrades to our planes.
Here's another fact for you. Just today, I ordered another Electroair EIS system for my other plane. Being a repeat buyer is strong proof of my endorsement of this ignition system!
ENGINES
When it comes to engines, product support makes the difference. At Yorkton Aircraft Service, we understand this completely. We'll work very hard to meet your needs and keep you in the air.
We work closely with all engine makes and models.
Our Radial relationships are strong with Aero Recip Canada and Covington Aircraft Engines. We've worked with Tulsa Aircraft over the years too and Aero Engines. It was sad to see Aero close up in 2014.
Our Turbine friends include Pratt & Whitney Canada and General Electric, their field representatives and their affiliates.
We've worked closely with Cascade Aircraft Conversions as well. In 2013 we converted a radial Thrush to a Walter Turbine and an AT Radial 401 to a Walter as well. You can see a photo here of the 1977 Thrush we converted and refurbished.
Our flat engine friends at Davis Aviation work with us to give our customers more horsepower and quieter operation with the IO-550 conversions.
We'd be happy to quote you on your next engine change. And if you are experiencing some engine issues, why not give us a call?
For pricing info and more information contact us.
PHILLIPS OIL & TURBO OIL
Of course! Contact us for details.
NOZZLE CLEANING
HOT SECTION INSPECTIONS
Yes, we can help!
CYLINDERS
We carry cylinders for both flat engines and round engines.
CARBURETORS, VOLTAGE REGULATORS, VACUUM PUMPS, MAGNETOS, FILTERS AND MORE
Yes we pretty much have it all - on our shelf, waiting to help you.
NEW TO THE TURBINE?
At the February 2015 Canadian Aerial Applicators conference Yorkton Aircraft hosted Yves Houde and Dalton Hill of Pratt & Whitney at oour New to the Industry session. The presentation highlighted key points those new to the turbine need to be mindful of. Here is a copy of the presentation.
