Picture one is of the original design "rubberized" reed cage assembly. As I mentioned, they are good for awhile. But I have noticed mine started leaking after about a year. I guess that would depend on how much use they have. I didn't even use the one on my 106. I simply replaced it when I bought the engine new. (Insert anal here) All new 3w engines now come with all the aluminum updated parts. Check the edges and corners of the reeds very carefully. I usually do the water hold test with them if I see no cracks or chips at the edges or corners. If I notice chips or cracks, I don't even waste my time. I simply replace the reeds. Or the cage if not already updated. It is completely up to you if you replace it. Some guys don't even worry about it. They just re-tighten and fly. I would think that Gerhard would have looked at it and if it was questionable, would have contacted the original owner. Maybe he did, maybe the original owner opted to not replace it. I can not say. The new aluminum reed cage is around 60 bucks if I remember correctly. I would have to find an invoice.
Yes, picture two is of the upgraded aluminum reed cage assembly. The reason you do not see them on his website is because he has not listed them. Again, can not say why. I only know I have purchased five of them over the last two years. No, actually four. I replaced the first one on the 157cs after about a year and half of owning it. Second and third were for the 212 two years ago. Fourth was for the 106cs and the last one, (fifth) was for my 170 just last spring.
Picture three is the gaskets and insulator that go between the carb base plate and the carb. If you choose to replace the reed cage, be sure to get a full compliment of gaskets to do the entire procedure. You will love yourself for doing so. Nothing I hate more than reusing a pre-torqued gasket.
Installation order: Engine case, corresponding gasket. Aluminum reed block, corresponding gasket. Updated aluminum reed cage, corresponding gasket. Aluminum carb base, carb base gasket, carb base insulator, carb base gasket, carb. (Note the arrangement of the pulse ports)
Now for the bottom line. I am so anal. Believe me, I really am. If there is an update for something, I will more than likely get it. If there is something more reliable and dependable, you can bet I got my money spent. I know you feel the same way about your Valach engines as I do my "Dub's". And now even my Kolm. I really try to treat them well. In the long run, they treat us (and our planes) well.
