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Morry Hummel, Hummel Aviation, and the Hummel Bird are names that are
recognized by aviation enthusiasts around the world. This year a new
design from Hummel Aviation the Ultra Cruiser was on display and flying at
Sun N Fun.
There are a couple of unique features to the Hummel line of aircraft.
First they use all metal aluminium construction, secondly they are
powered by 4 stroke half Volkswagen engines.
According to Scott Casler " we take a four cylinder VW engine cut
it in two and use the front two cylinders" "we make three
engines a 28, 32, and 37 hp" "the only difference between the
engines is the displacement." "The cases for the engines are
purchased reconditioned or are available new." "All of the other
parts, cylinders, pistons, heads, cams etc. are new"
 The
engine uses the standard VW wet sump oil system. A Zenith updraft
carburator is used with a unique carb heating system used to help prevent
carb icing. The oil lines are wrapped around the fuel intake. Ignition
is supplied by a single magneto. The prop is spun direct drive. All out
weight of the engine is 85 lbs. According to Scott the engine is suitable
for light experimentals and ultralights. It can currently be found on Mini
Max, Hummel Birds, Skyraiders, and of course the Ultra cruiser. According
to Scott, "with regular maintenance, oil changes etc you can go 1500
hours between rebuilds" "rebuilds are very cheap, you are
looking at about $250 in parts" "these are all off the shelve VW
parts." Currently the engines are prices at $3250 for the 37 hp
model, $2700 for the 32 hp model and$2400 for the 28 hp model. These
prices are for ready to run engines. They can also be built from plans, or
parts available from Scott Casler 419-335-2147. The Ultra Cruiser While
the Ultra Cruiser uses the same all aluminum construction as the Hummel
Bird it is a completely redesigned aircraft. It has been length end
and lightened for better ground stability and to fit into the U.S.
ultralight category. The Ultra Cruiser uses .016 thou, 60 61-T6 aluminum
rivet together construction. Currently the plane is only available as a
plans built plane, but pre formed parts will soon be available. The
average builder building from plans should be able to complete
construction in about 800 hours, using standard metal tools, with a brake
helping to speed building. A construction and flying video is available. It is
anticipated the plane will be available ready to fly in the near future. The
Ultra Cruiser is legal all metal Part 103 legal ultralight when powered by
the reliable 4 stroke half Volkswagen engine. It has a canopy and heater
for all weather flying, and the canopy can be quickly and easily removed
for summer flying. The wings are detachable for storage. The
wing span of the Ultra Cruiser is 25 ft, with a length of 17 ft, stall
comes in between 25-28 mph, empty weight is 249 lbs. gross weight with a
170 lbs pilot is 450 lbs. For more information contact: Hummel
Aviation
509 East Butler
Bryan OH 43506 |
