Disappearing Engines
06-16-2003, 05:40 PM
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Disappearing Engines
Hello All,
I've been away from the hobby for about 6 years. I'm coming back into it and very surprised how much things have change in such a short time. Specifically, what has happened to ASP and Super Tiger engines? I was told Super Tiger was sold to a Chinese interest and all manufacturing moved there. If true, what year did this happen? When I lived in Florida ('87 to '91) ASP engines were very popular at the local field. What happened to these guys? I found an internet site this morning from the UK that still sells ASP. Is the same as the old brand? Anyway, if anybody out there cares to take the time and give me a brief history lesson as to what happened to these engines. While were at it, add Rossi and Webra to the list. Thanks.
I've been away from the hobby for about 6 years. I'm coming back into it and very surprised how much things have change in such a short time. Specifically, what has happened to ASP and Super Tiger engines? I was told Super Tiger was sold to a Chinese interest and all manufacturing moved there. If true, what year did this happen? When I lived in Florida ('87 to '91) ASP engines were very popular at the local field. What happened to these guys? I found an internet site this morning from the UK that still sells ASP. Is the same as the old brand? Anyway, if anybody out there cares to take the time and give me a brief history lesson as to what happened to these engines. While were at it, add Rossi and Webra to the list. Thanks.
06-16-2003, 05:55 PM
#2
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Disappearing Engines
You're right! A lot has changed in the past 6 years or so. Don't feel bad though. If it's Chinese engines you want...they're just about everywhere. ASP is still common abroad, but much less so here.
Word is that ST is/has/will move its mfg to China.
Webra is I BELIEVE being handled by Horizon Hobbies. Rossi is handled by Morris Hobbies in Tx.
The market has changed quite a bit IMO. Big shift to 4 stroke engines for many, and the big gas burners have really jumped in popularity. Still a lot of good 2 cycle engines to be had.
Big qualitative differences I think, but...the average modeler isn't the same anymore either. Much of the equipment is directed squarely at the "one season" r/cer. Buy it..use it...throw it away.
My $.02
Welcome back!
Word is that ST is/has/will move its mfg to China.
Webra is I BELIEVE being handled by Horizon Hobbies. Rossi is handled by Morris Hobbies in Tx.
The market has changed quite a bit IMO. Big shift to 4 stroke engines for many, and the big gas burners have really jumped in popularity. Still a lot of good 2 cycle engines to be had.
Big qualitative differences I think, but...the average modeler isn't the same anymore either. Much of the equipment is directed squarely at the "one season" r/cer. Buy it..use it...throw it away.
My $.02
Welcome back!
06-16-2003, 05:55 PM
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Disappearing Engines
C'est la vie... times do change...
I did the same, but with a 20 year gap ( makes me sound older than I am
)
I wonder what happened to Merco? At least I can still get an Irvine engine.
Lots of people say that ASP and Magnum are made in the same Chinese factory and that they are the same engine. So, what's the differece? Usually about $30
Some ASP engines (mostly 4 strokes) are available through various sellers on ebay, and as you say, there's Just Engines in the UK.
Some European makers have sold out/ been bought by MECOA in the US eg HB HP K&B.
Webra and Rossi I think are still available, though others will know more about that... Webra parts are available from Horizon..
I did the same, but with a 20 year gap ( makes me sound older than I am
)I wonder what happened to Merco? At least I can still get an Irvine engine.
Lots of people say that ASP and Magnum are made in the same Chinese factory and that they are the same engine. So, what's the differece? Usually about $30
Some ASP engines (mostly 4 strokes) are available through various sellers on ebay, and as you say, there's Just Engines in the UK.Some European makers have sold out/ been bought by MECOA in the US eg HB HP K&B.
Webra and Rossi I think are still available, though others will know more about that... Webra parts are available from Horizon..
06-17-2003, 01:54 AM
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Disappearing Engines
Sadly, Merco is no longer around unless you count the Rustler Merco which, if memory serves correctly, is actually made in one of the East European countries by special order.
The Super Tigre factory has been moved to China because the Italian labour costs were getting too high. It's still owned and supervised by the original owners and engines have been coming out of there for a while now but most have gone to England. Reports are starting to come in about the ST51 where it's said to be at least as good as the Italian made engine.
Rossi and Webra are still going strong as usual. OS is still overpriced and over rated and Irvine have some of the best you can buy.
The Super Tigre factory has been moved to China because the Italian labour costs were getting too high. It's still owned and supervised by the original owners and engines have been coming out of there for a while now but most have gone to England. Reports are starting to come in about the ST51 where it's said to be at least as good as the Italian made engine.
Rossi and Webra are still going strong as usual. OS is still overpriced and over rated
and Irvine have some of the best you can buy.
