Circa 1967 Fichtel & Sachs AG developed the Wankel KM 48 into an auxiliary power unit for sailplanes.
The 10 bhp engine uses normal grade petrol with 2% by volume of added lubricating oil.
The first installation was in a Ka8 single seat sailplane. The Wankel KMA8 is mounted on a single upward projecting tube above the aircraft C of G. A 31.5in diameter Hoffman pusher propellor is mounted directly on to the output shaft. Engine cooling and appearance are enhanced by a polyester resin glassfibre cowling. The engine, cowling and 1.1 Imp.Gal of fuel weight 38.6 lb.
The test programme showed at a steady 5000 rpm and a forward speed of 40.5 mph, the Ka8 was climbed at up to 140 fpm at around 6500 ft. Maximum level speed was 59 mph.
Fichtel & Sachs believe that 800-1000 between overhauls could be expected.
Displacement: 160 cc
Output: 10 bhp at 5,000 rpm
Engine weight: 18.74 lb
All Aero 