What engine for RV-10?
The RV-10 is designed to fly well on the bulletproof six-cylinder Lycoming O-540 engine, developing 260 hp. In our prototype, power is provided by a fuel-injected 260 hp Lycoming IO-540. RV aircraft are designed to use Lycoming aircraft engines, with the exception of the RV-12 and RV-12iS Light-Sport Aircraft models, which leverage the Rotax 912 series of engines. Van’s recommendation for the 4-place RV-10 includes any of the parallel valve 540’s which are available from 235hp up to the 260hp version.
Is it better to have a gas or diesel RV?
A diesel RV brings more to the table than engine longevity. Here are some of the top reasons diesel continues to be the preferred powertrain for experienced RVers: Stronger torque for towing and hill climbing. Better fuel economy on long journeys. When this is taken into consideration, diesel engines are the more powerful of the two. If you are looking to go off-roading or will be carrying heavy loads, a powerful diesel engine would provide the power you need.