I'm happy to announce that my bird is coming back to the nest. An opportunity came out of the blue and I couldn't pass it up. Her keeper took exceptional care of it and cant wait to fly it home in the next week or so. Might have to head to KOSH this year!
if superior engine used the white silicone on the front crank seal on this engine, consider swapping it for a new seal with pliobond adhesive. they have switched to using pliobond now.