On Aug 8, 6:40*am, Bob C wrote:
The jet powered Super Salto flew for the first time on 1 August. *Other
than a high EGT reading that turned out to be a software glitch in the
panel display, all test flights went very well. *The engine and systems
performed flawlessly. *I haven't analyzed the GPS traces yet, but climb
rate exceeds 2000 ft/min and it will easily reach the airframe Vne of 155
knots. *Landings are a bit interesting since the engine produces 40 lbs
thrust at idle. *I have the option of using the tail parachute or shutting
down if needed. *The engine is not retractable, but it can be removed in
ten minutes for trailering *The entire system, including engine mount,
pumps, valves and fuel system can be removed in another ten minutes. *I
hope to debut the Super Salto on the airshow circuit later this summer.

The TJ-100 jet engine is manufactured by PBS Velka Bites (velka beetesh)
in the Czech Republic. *It is mil spec, and traces its roots to the APU
used on many Russian fighters and helicopters. *The factory's
TJ-100-equipped Blanik L-13 just flew to 31,800 ft. *It was still
climbing, but had exhausted all of its fuel. *Initial reports indicate the
engine performed well even above FL300.

More info and videos atwww.vertigoairshows.com

TJ-100 engine specs:
Weight: 40 lbs
Thrust (takeoff): 225 lbs
Thrust (continuous): 155 lbs
SFC (at max continuous): 1.09 lbm/lbf/hr
Cost (in severely deflated US dollars): $50K - $60K

Nice Bob.

Guess the value of used Salto's just went up.

Al