0-540 Mags - Slicks or Bendix

[TrueAirSpeed]

Rounding the corner on hanging the engine and wanted to get opinions on magnetos. I was hoping on EMag Air coming through with their much talked about (for the last three years) six cylinder PMag, but can't wait much longer. I've read the differences between Slick vs Bendix, but wanted to hear it from others on their preferences. Please, only 0-540 responses. Thanks in advance for your input, Terry

[tf104]

I am planning to run Robert Paisleys EFII dual ignition .

[alaskabearhawk]

I'm going to use Slick magnetos on my IO-540 with a Slickstart. My mission is to fly out in the bush. If I'm stuck somewhere, like on some remote strip, I can usually get help if the parts are stock aircraft parts. If I have the Whizbang Super-Plasma Discharge 3000 MKII ignition system (now with blueflash technology!), all I will get is: "A what?...Can't help ya...sorry.".

[TrueAirSpeed]

Good point!

[Battson]

I am running Bendix S6 on my IO-540, with impulse coupling on just the L mag (always starts very first blade!). Got mine via Bob Barrows.
The only thing I wish I had different, I have the old style "plug lead" terminals. They are a right pain in the behind, and the newer exposed terminal style would be a lot easier to work with.

[TrueAirSpeed]

Thank you! I'm leaning towards Bendix also. I have read that Bendix is a better mag and can be rebuilt, whereas the Slicks aren't/can't.

[alaskabearhawk]

I don't know where you got the information that Slick mags can't be rebuilt, they can be. Both brands are almost cost-prohibitive to rebuild because of parts cost and that's why most just opt for new. I sold my Bendix S6s that came with the motor as cores on ebay. The Slickstart is a great option and I think worth a look. You will get opinions pro/con all over the internet...take them with a grain of salt. Bendix are good mags and so are Slick. I happened to get both mine, plus a Slickstart, new in the box for $700...no brainer.

[TrueAirSpeed]

Thanks! I'll certainly do more research before I make a purchase.

[Baloo]

I just received an overhauled engine that was ordered and quoted with Overhauled Bendix Mags. It arrived with a set of new Slicks. Is this something that is worth mentioning with the engine supplier? Should I be asking for the O/H Bendix as quoted or is it same/same different?

[marcusofcotton]

I'd stay with the Slicks. I understand the new ones are better than they used to be, and these are new compared to rebuilt. And, they are lighter, which I really like.

[stinger]

Ford or Chev. I prefer Slick. Both can be overhauled . I also like New ! Stinger