RC Plane Power Systems A Beginners Guide

Which RC Airplane Motor do you choose if, you look for the most bang for your buck? In this video, I'll share my thoughts on choosing between a Gas, Nitro (Glow) and Electric RC Airplane Motors.

[@coolfly7956]

I ordered the radio like yours today. Getting ready to change over to gas!!

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

In the long run, gas will be a cheaper option to glow or electric flight. Thanks for the comment and for watching!!!

[@thedeathlybro]

I’m also planning on using an 18 inch prop

[@MasboyRC]

Great video sir, i just use weedeater engine for my rc plane engine 😁

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Thanks for the comment and for watching!!!

[@ombewphitol6968]

Cara anda menjelaskan sangat baik. Semoga bermanfaat untuk orang yang membutuhkan Godblees you and your fam. Indonesian people

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Terima kasih atas komentarnya dan telah menonton. And God bless you and your family!

[@deanwebster]

Great video!

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Thanks, Dean!

[@kathleenrobertpogue6818]

Im looking to start designing an rc plane. It will be a flying wing\ lifting body type aircraft. Around 50-60 pound all up weight. is a 100cc 4 stroke overkill for something like that?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

If you are just starting out in designing your own airplanes, you might want to check out the FlyingGiants or RCUniverse forums. They have a lot of folks who design their own aircraft and can provide a lot more insight than I can. I haven't progressed up to designing my own yet. I would love to some day. Thanks for the question and for watching!!!

[@Stuff_happens]

Well. It appears I have found the right channel. I am looking to use an rc gas engine to run a generator to power a drone. I was hoping to have the generator recharge batteries and auto start on low voltage, or just run the gas constantly and use the batteries to get the drone back to home. Do you have any suggestions? Not anything too big( engine). The whole thing should stay around 350 to 475 grams. Would appreciate any guidance. And save time not re-inventing the wheel.

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

I'm not sure how you would be able to use an RC gas engine to power a generator? I would think that would be some type of mad scientist invention/creation. If you do figure out a way to do it, please send me pics and videos... I'd like to see the set up! Thanks for the comment and for watching!!!

[@franciscourena5636]

Gas engine is better for long range and big size Planes?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Yes. Gas engines are also very fuel efficient. They are not just for larger sized planes. I am looking at one that will fit my 48" wing spanned plane that I am building from plans.

[@arlosea6632]

whats the best 15 cc gas engine that is around 250-300 dollars

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Here's what I found for a 15cc gas engine. I have the same brand in 26cc. I haven't ran it yet but, several of the members of the club I am with, do. They seem to be very dependable engines. Link: www.rcgfusa.com/product/new-rcgf-15cc-re-stinger/ Thanks for watching!

[@jdcc15]

For a DLE 170cc engine, what is the max amount of weight my plane could have?. Also, is it possible to use it on a pusher? Thanks

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

If you're going to use 170cc engine, you will be looking in the large scale category of planes. An example from Bill Hempel's website: www.billhempel.com/pawnee/index.php The 46% scale Pawnee weighs between 70-85 pounds. That may be around the typical weight you would be looking for? Unfortunately, the largest gas engine I run is a 26cc for my 106" Cub. Although I would love to get into the larger scale planes, my space is limited and my wife won't increase my monthly allowance to afford any rc planes of that size. As for using it as a pusher... Not sure? I haven't seen anyone else with that size of an engine, use it as a pusher.

[@jdcc15]

​Thank you! The fact is that I'm building my own plane and I need it to be a pusher. Are gas engines actually being used for this purpose?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

@@jdcc15 I have seen some gas engines used a pushers but, most are from scratch-build plans. You have piqued my interest in what you are building. When you have some pics, send me a couple to check out!

[@jdcc15]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy sure, I'll send some pics as soon as I start building it. I've been looking into the matter and it seems I just need to use a Pusher propeller. I might need to scale up to the DLE 222cc. Do I need to locate the gas tank above the engine level?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

It's always the best to keep the fuel tank level with the carb. Can't wait to see the pics. Sounds like you're going to build one cool looking bird!!!!

[@bluecavemen]

I would love to get training on 2 stroke aircraft engines. Where can I get training at so I can be certificated? Same thing with jet turbine engine too?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

I don't know of any certification for RC engines? . Thanks for watching!!!

[@bluecavemen]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy yes for RC or UAV same goes for jet turbine engine

[@laughtime8157]

Do you still have to deal with the other cylinder not starting but the rest starts?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

I had to do some research on this topic as, I haven't experienced the issue with my DLE 111cc twin. From my research, the issue is possible and could be caused from either a faulty ignition cable on the affected side, an incorrect gap on a spark plug or, a possible hole in a piston. Like I said, I haven't experienced this issue and haven't heard anyone talking about it, lately. Thanks for the question and for watching!!!

[@laughtime8157]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy Appreciate the response man

[@shubhamdwivedi7766]

Is there any plane rc engine that runs on battery I am new to RC planes?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Gas engines use a battery for ignition, similar to the way a car engine works. Electric motors exclusively work off of battery power. There a wide range of electric motors to fit most any size of RC plane from, micro flyers to large scale. Thanks for the question and for watching!!!

[@EpicGamer-ez5zy]

So I'm planing out a build for a aircraft and I'm building a forth scale size of the a-10 worthog would electric be better for this instead of gas

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Either one will do the job for you. Electric may be a little cheaper on the upfront cost over gas engines. As far as the fuel source, gas may be cheaper in the long run than buying a bunch of batteries, (depending on battery cost)? Good luck in your endeavor! Thanks for the question and for watching!!!

[@EpicGamer-ez5zy]

I was planing on electric because I don't want to carry full and power at the same time but I think gas would be better in speed but at the same time electric would save me more than gas but I don't know witch would be better for long range flights

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

If you are looking for longer flights at full throttle, I would say go with gas. If you practice a lot of throttle management, then you could go with electric.

[@EpicGamer-ez5zy]

Ok thank you so much for your help Iv Ben messing around with that for a while your the best and is it ok if I ask you if I have any engine questions I'm not that good at moters

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

@@EpicGamer-ez5zy Sure. I'll do my best to help!

[@PiotrW-lp6eb]

I’m a beginner and having trouble starting my eBay 15-3 engine I think I got the wrong fuel tank because it has 2 holes instead of 3 will 2 holes work or do I need to drill another hole or just buy a new fuel tank

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Unfortunately, I don't know anything about the Enya 15-iii engine but, I did find this tidbit of information from the forums that may help you figure it out. www.rcuniverse.com/forum/glow-engines-114/2891813-anyone-have-useful-info-enya-15-iii.html Good luck! Thanks for the question and for watching!!!

[@PiotrW-lp6eb]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy also can I use alternative fuels it’s a glow fuel engine I was thinking a mix of methanol spirit and caster oil

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

@@PiotrW-lp6eb The link to the forum mentions fuel mixtures. Cheers!

[@meghmegh101]

Which motor can give me more flying time??

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Gasoline engines are very fuel efficient and with throttle management, you'll get longer flight times as compared to nitro and electrics. You could extend the flight time a little with nitro and electrics but, it depends on the type of airplane you're flying and how much throttle management you are using. Thanks for watching!

[@sikeletonreiz8084]

yess i was looking for that

[@denismoran670]

I'm no beginner, but still don't really know what cc engines are, or their cubic inches equivalent. For example, I was watching a Stearman Biplane with an 'OS 120 Surpass III ', but would like to know what cc it is, as I have one to prep, and have 17,25, and 30cc engines available! Any easy way to convert these, please?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

The OS 120 is a 20cc 4-stroke engine. If you have a 25cc available, it should work fine. The best way to compare engine equivalents between nitro and gas, would be to download the manuals from either the manufacturer's website or an online hobby website. As a general rule, a .91 4-stroke nitro engine is equivalent to a 15cc gas. 120 nitro = 20cc, 150 = 25-26cc. Thanks for the question and for watching!!

[@TatsByTaco]

I recently put my cison 17.5cc 4 stroke in my Nexa p47 just for sh*ts and giggles. Sounds absolutely mad but i should probably put an insurance policy out on it! Haha

[@laughtime8157]

Is There A Website where You Can buy a Complete Rc Gas plane?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

There are plenty. Here are just four to get you started on your journey: towerhobbies.com horizonhobby.com legendhobby.com rcwarbirdmodels.com JR

[@AliHassan-mh2gh]

I want to run car AC compressor which rc plane engine should i use to make small room air conditioner

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

I would think a large gas engine? If you try it out, please video it!!! Thanks for watching!

[@AliHassan-mh2gh]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy What Should be the power? Can you recommend me any engine how much cc engine should I use ?? I am working on it, will update you soon with video 💓

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

@@AliHassan-mh2gh All RC engines and electric motors are designed to spin a propeller. Not sure any of them would really be capable of turning a belt for the compressor? Not sure there would be even enough torque to be effective? I would suggest looking into more powerful DC motors that are designed to turn belts. But, if you can figure out away to mate an RC engine to a car AC compressor, definitely video it!!! I'd like to see what you can create!

[@thedeathlybro]

I have a large rc plane which I am building, and it weighs around 15 pounds. Which engine do you suggest I buy

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

From your second comment, you plan on using an 18" prop. Most engines that will swing that size of a prop, will be in the 30-35cc range. What type of plane is it?

[@thedeathlybro]

The Traveling Tech Guy its a custom plane which I have designed myself and is a cross between an extra 300 and a Z51

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

@@thedeathlybro Sounds cool! have you finished building it yet? I'd like to see pics!

[@thedeathlybro]

What size glow engine would be sufficient for this aircraft? I did some research and found that a 1.08 or 1.20 would do well. Is this true?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Unfortunately, neither one is going to be enough power for the weight of your plane. The 1.20 may get your plane off the ground but, it will be sluggish. The closest I've seen in glow is going to be a Saito FA-180 at 29.5 cc's. Even that one, may not have enough power. If you can go with a gas engine, an engine in the 30-35cc range, will have enough power to propel your plane. Plus, the gas engine is more fuel efficient than a glow engine.

[@ericwillis777]

What about 4 stroke glows, and can I substitute a 40 2 stroke glow with a 40 4 stroke glow motor ?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Comparing an O.S. .40 2-stroke to a Saito FA-40A 4-Stroke Engine as an example. Both have the same displacement of 6.5cc's. The issue comes down to will it fit, (if there is a cowl) and if the 4-stroke, is heavier than the 2-stroke.

[@ericwillis777]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy I inherited a vintage Carl Goldberg Eagle II with a well used and abused Magnum 40, after I finally got unsiezed it seems to have deep scratches. (machining ?), on the piston at the exhaust port - it runs ok, are these some sort of lubrication channels, if not and it's just damaged someone has given me a brand new Saito 40 two stroke glo. Can I use it instead of the magnum. I doubt weight will be aproblem, thanks fof the help.

[@ericwillis777]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy Sorry - make that a Saito 40 4 stroke glo.

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

@@ericwillis777 No worries! If the weight and the size isn't a factor, it should work! Both have the same displacement of 6.5cc.

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

The 4-stroke with have more torque than the 2-stroke.

[@vinayakkhatawate9335]

Hi I was planning to buy a nitro engine can u pls suggest me which nitro engine to buy for my plane which is around 7 pound in weight

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

What type of plane is it? Brand, model, etc.

[@vinayakkhatawate9335]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy it's my own model plane which is flying great with bldc motor. I was plannig to convert it to nitro

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Without knowing the specifics of the plane itself, you may be able to use a .46-.55 2-stroke engine or, a .52 4-stroke. I have a Phoenix Cessna that weighs in a little over 7lbs. I tried using an OS .46 2-stroke. The grass field we fly from, made for a very slow take off. I have since switched to a OS .52 4-stroke for more torque but, haven't had a chance to get the plane back in the air. What is the size of the bldc motor you are using now?

[@vinayakkhatawate9335]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy 1st I'm very thankful to U for ur kind reply.Im using two motors on my plane 2212 1400kv

[@vinayakkhatawate9335]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy If u share ur mail id i would like to send u the video of my plane

[@miimme704]

Can you help me build one ?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Build what?

[@peterp696]

Are you actually saying that I can just buy 100LL and put two cycle oil and I can use that in my RC engine? At what ratio would one mix 100LL and oil?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Not sure what a 100LL is? If that is equivalent to a 100cc gas engine… I use 40:1 gas to two-cycle oil mix in all of my gas engines. Thanks for the comment and for watching!!!

[@peterp696]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy you mentioned AvGas or aviation fuel. 100LL is AvGas, 100 low lead. Thanks for your response.

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Oh, okay, thanks!!

[@WayneCook306]

It's a glow engine, not nitro..

[@shiladityahaldar5241]

Glow is not nitro ! Lol

[@themadscientest]

How about diesel engines?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Unfortunately, I haven't had any experience with diesel engines. If you use them, please let me know your thoughts on them? Thanks for watching!!!

[@themadscientest]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy Been looking into them because they seem cool, and the fuel is all usually home brew.

[@blue03r6]

it baffles me for guys with planes that cost more than most people mortgage does per month complain about $28 fuel.

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

That's only if they are using glow engines. Gas engines, run on pump gas or AVGAS which, is a lot cheaper. I love glow engines... That's what I started with when I got back into the hobby. I used to pay around $16.00 for a gallon of glow fuel and it would last all Spring and Summer. The last time I bought some, it was almost $40 for a gallon jug. I have started transitioning into planes that run gas engines. I can afford the $2.65 /gallon more than $40 /gallon. Plus, my wife won't give me more of an allowance to buy the really big birds! :) Thanks for the comment and for watching!!!

[@blue03r6]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy the only electric planes ill be buying again are edf jets. A silent plane is boring! I have 3 nitro powered planes one electric propeller plane and 1 edf f16 jet. I fly the nitro planes way more

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Electrics are pretty popular but for me, I love the sound of a good glow or gas engine. If I could ever afford it, I'd have a Moki radial... Oooo that sound!!!

[@vid2ification]

Seasons is no measurement of engine efficiency. Maybe its an rc fan thing, but it means literally nothing to anybody familiar with engines

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

Your right, it's not. This video is directed towards those just starting out in the hobby who, aren't going to be familiar engines and the information I provided, was a generalized overview. Thanks for commenting and watching!

[@vid2ification]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy if targets towards those just starting out, I recommend not using seasons as a measurement of efficiency because it indicates none. What is a season? How long is a season? How many hours of runtime are in a season? Is this a standard of some kind? Is the engine not as vital as I assumed? Is the rc engine something that has not yet received enough r&d by those capable?

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

You're thinking way too deep on the subject. :)

[@vid2ification]

@@TheTravelingTechGuy hardly any depth put into it. My grandfather hand built model planes and i still have one hangin in what is now the baby's room from when he passed many years ago. He was a man who enjoyed much simpler hobbies than i do, he played local golf tournaments, i played at an airstrip to see what trap speeds i could get out of old dart with a slant six in it. We both fished but while he read about old wars i read about the physical mechanisms used in children's toys. RC won't offer any challenge other than a financial one. Thanks for the reply, time to hit the crap yard for raw materials I can use for the housing of a jet powered rocket to piss off the neighborhood

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

When you get your rocket built, film it! I'd like to watch it fly and, piss of the neighbors.... Have a good one!

[@whowell117]

Electro? Lol

[@TheTravelingTechGuy]

lol, thanks for watching!!!