How to Break In Your Radio-Controlled Gas Engine

Big, small or miniature - no internal combustion engine will operate properly without proper break-in and maintenance.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• R/C model engines - OS, SuperTigre, YS, Cox and Saito
• Model Engine Supplies And Accessories
• Model Aviation Subscription
• Jeweler's Screwdrivers
• Gripping Straight Tweezers
• Tweezer-nose Pliers
• Nut Drivers
• Electric Screwdrivers
• Screwdriver Bits
• Needle-nose Pliers
• Phillips Screwdrivers
• Slotted Screwdrivers

1. Read the manufacturer's break-in and operating instructions carefully.
2. Make sure the engine is clean and no packing debris clings to it.
3. Check all screws and bolts for proper tightness. Check any torque specifications in the owner's manual to avoid overtightening.
4. Choose a quality, name-brand fuel.
5. Review carefully the procedure for adjusting the needle valve, the mechanism by which the raw fuel is fed to the combustion chamber.
6. Adjust the needle valve from the factory setting to a point where the engine will run on a rich mixture - that is, an increased portion of fuel. The engine will run cooler and allow the piston and sleeve to set slowly.
7. Check the speed control to avoid over-revving the engine.
8. Make sure the propeller is attached. Engines can be damaged if operated without a load.
9. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for starting the engine.
10. Use a "chicken stick" to start the engine if you don't have an electric starting system.
11. Run the engine dry rather than shutting it off. You can disconnect the fuel line from the tank and let the engine run until it stops.
12. Use a bit of "after run" oil to lubricate the engine after it runs dry. Leftover fuel can cause moisture to accumulate in the engine.
13. Recheck nuts, bolts and screws for tightness.
14. Clean the engine. Spray compounds are available for this.

Tips & Warnings

• Join a radio-control modeler's club. Attend club flying activities. Find a mentor.
• Use the Internet to interact with other R/C hobbyists.
• R/C hobbyists in isolated areas have access to the latest equipment, supplies, and information through online retailers like eHobbies.com (see Related Sites).
• Fuel tank stoppers and other engine plumbing should be replaced each season.
• A crash means airframe repairs, but it also means engine maintenance. The best choice is disassembling and rebuilding the engine even if there's no outward appearance of damage.
• Water crashes require flushing the engine with fresh fuel by removing the glow plug and cranking the engine. Treat with "after run" oil after the engine is water-free.
• Radio-control model engines run at high temperatures and spin rigid propellers at thousands of revolutions per minute. Exercise caution. Supervise youngsters and novices.