Lycoming O-233. Any News?

I am sure that many of you saw the Lycoming O-233 engine at Oshkosh
08. For those of you who did not, it appears to be a Lyc O-235 that
has undergone a weight shedding process. It is supposed to be rated
at 100 hp at 2400 rpm, but will produce 116 hp at 2700 rpm. At least
that is what I remember. It also is supposed to have roller tappets,
and, the best part, weights right close to 200 pounds.

I am in the process of building a Murphy Rebel, and plan on flying it
as a Light Sport Aircraft. I think that this engine would be perfect
for the plane.

I wrote Lycoming a letter (Sept. 2) asking that I be put on a list for
buying one when they are available. Since then I have not had any
response from them. This surprises me. If nothing else, I would expect
to receive a letter saying " Thanks for your interest, but.... ". I
didn't think that business was that great that they would completely
ignore a potential customer. But, I have been wrong before.

Have any of you guys got any insight on this engine? Any clue when it
might get to the market?

Thanks.

Tim Hickey.

Zenith CH-300 Driver.