New Ximango features and AMT-200S

The New Ximango Touring Gliders now being delivered to North America are offered with a wide range of powerplants and are equipped with significant other improvements. Ximango manufacturer Grupo Aeromot describes these changes as evolutionary refinements resulting from Aeromot’s own engineering studies and from owner feedback worldwide. The changes further enhance the performance, ease of maintenance and the pilot ergonomics of New Ximangos.

POWERPLANTS: In addition to the popular Super Ximango, powered by
the 81-horsepower Rotax 912 and 3-position Hoffman propeller, the Ximango is in production with two increased-power engine-propeller setups, both certified by the FAA and now entering the USA in numbers. The three available powerplants are:

• AMT-200 Super Ximango, powered by the 81-hp Rotax 912 and Hoffman mechanical 3-position propeller.

• AMT-200S, Super Ximango “S” powered by the new 100-hp Rotax 912S and Hoffman mechanical 3-position propeller.

• AMT-300 Turbo Ximango, powered by the turbocharged 115-hp Rotax 914 and a MT Propellers constant-speed prop

Accompanying the two new engine installations are redesigned cowls and inlets, larger oil coolers and coolant radiators. The three powerplant options now give prospective owners a wide range of choices to fit their own operating conditions and needs.

The 100-hp version has proven extremely popular since its certification and introduction. The USAF Academy has selected it for their fourteen TG-14 Ximangos recently delivered.

COCKPIT AND SYSTEMS: The instrument panel was completely redesigned recently and has now been further improved in both the layout and the instrumentation. Switches are now all in a single line; annunciators are grouped in a cluster, with higher-visibility lamps; the fuse panel is relocated to provide for right-side instruments; and the available area in the center avionics stack is now both larger and easier to access for installation. The new panel is a single piece of aluminum cut by an NC machine, rather than formed from glass-epoxy as previously.

Engine and fuel instrumentation now consists of a tachometer and three dual gauges, plus a manifold pressure gage for the turbo. The fuel-quantity gauges are capacitance-type, rather than float-type, and thus more linear and accurate. The tachometer is electronic, rather than mechanical (cable driven), eliminating a major firewall penetration and maintenance item.

The electrical system continues to be refined. For example, high-quality quick-disconnect connectors have been used extensively and both the wire routing and system grounding scheme have been refined. An external power plug may now be ordered to permit easy overnight battery charging.

Canopy locks are completely redesigned to consist of two side locks, mounted one to each siderail, in place of the "T-handle" in the instrument panel used on the older versions.

The cockpit baggage area behind the seats has had its volume enlarged significantly by lowering its floor. The headrests are now able to be hinged forward for better access to the baggage compartment. Cockpit ventilation outlets have been redesigned for even more controllability and higher flow.

Cockpit sidewalls are now equipped with movable pouches (velcro) for more convenience. New molded stick grips are now more ergonomic. Refinements to the seat and back cushions have improved comfort beyond its already very high level. The method for attaching the center console 
and stick cover provides quicker access for maintenance.

AIRFRAME: Several important aerodynamic improvements have been made which add up to noticeable performance and handling increases. The elevator trim is now accomplished by a completely internal gas-spring system, versus the earlier trim-tab system, providing a significant aerodynamic efficiency improvement.

The ailerons have been completely redesigned to improve control response at both thermalling speeds and in powered cruise. The new ailerons also allow the installation of mylar gap seals, accompanied by full-span turbulators.

Additionally, winglets have been introduced as a factory option for the Ximango family. Designed over a period of three years by specialists on three continents, these additions to the Ximango profile are not only beautiful but also add to the low-speed circling performance of the craft.

Taken all together, these improvements are believed to result in an improvement in L/D to 32-33:1, are estimated to add 3 knots to the powered cruise speed and reduce sink rate 10 - 20 fpm over the 50-100 kt speed range for soaring. In addition, the slow-speed and cruise-speed handling are noticeably improved from their existing class-leadership levels.

Another important development is PPG Polyurethane exterior finish. User demand for this finish has led to its implementation by Aeromot after extensive evaluation. All new Ximangos are finished with a two-part PPG polyurethane system, providing a finish that is more weather-resistant and lighter in weight.

The new finish is only one component of a major weight-reduction program now completed. The result is a significantly improved useful load for the entire Ximango family.

In summary, the cockpit and systems changes are evolutionary refinements which Grupo Aeromot engineered in concert with owner input worldwide. We are very pleased with the dedication to relentless improvement and customer satisfaction which they represent. The Ximango family of motorgliders is now even more refined and desireable, as a result.

For further information, visit
www.XimangoUSA.com
E-mail: XimangoUSA@aol.com
tel/fax: (386) 760-4072