Saito 90 FA 90T ?
 

Hi all. I'm getting back into building after 15 years.

I bought a Saito FA 90T in 1986. It's been sitting around for years and I was wondering if I could have the engine refurbished, timed etc. It looks to be in pretty good shape but the exhaust pipes are a bit dented.

Can I still by parts for this engine? Is it worth it?

I seem to remember having trouble keeping both glow plugs lit.

Any help would be appreciated. :)

I would like to put it in a Mr.Mulligan I started way back when (Zaroli/Carstens plans) that is 60% complete.



My engine is not as pretty as this one...

http://i8.ebayimg.com/01/i/02/af/a8/83_12_s.JPG

RE: Saito 90 FA 90T ?
 

As far as I know, you can still get parts? Altough multiple cylinder Saitos are not as common as the singles, they do show up on here from time to time. Here is a link to the parts and manuals...

http://www.horizonhobby.com/Shop/ByC...odID=SAIE090TS

One jug going out is a problem on these. They get better as they are broken in more. Some people use a device to put voltage to the plugs at low speed also.

Enjoy,

Jim

RE: Saito 90 FA 90T ?
 

w8ye,
The link you posted is to a FA 90TS. This is a completely different engine than the long out of production FA 90T.

However, the basic engine is still produced. The displacement of the FA 90T was increased and the engine is now the FA 100T.

It seems all old twins have problems with flameouts. You have to use an onboard glow system that will keep the plugs lit. This used to be a real problem because of weight. A small battery pack would run down after just a flight or two. However, with todays NiMH batteries, this isn't as much of a problem. You get about 3X the capacity out of the same size battery.

I expect you can still get parts for your FA 90T. However, the price may be very high. I believe a new FA 100T sells for $499.99. You can often pick up a used FA 90T for under $300. If yours needs much work, it might be better to pick up one in good shape and keep yours for parts.

Ken

RE: Saito 90 FA 90T ?
 

To help keep both sides lit, use longer exhaust pipes. This helps keep heat in the cylinder and the plug lit. The short pipes can actually let some cold air back in the engine and cool the plug.

RE: Saito 90 FA 90T ?
 

"You have to use an onboard glow system that will keep the plugs lit."

I did back in 1996. The engine is in nice shape but the exhaust pipes (brass) are damaged a bit, dented.

I think I may be able to make make my own pipes but there is a flat 3/32 flange on top, not flaired.

Thanks for the replies... Carl

RE: Saito 90 FA 90T ?
 

I used an on-board system on my FA-90T for several years till I found it was not needed anymore and I have been flying without it for the last eight years or so. Have not lost a cylinder in ages.[8D][8D]........RJ

RE: Saito 90 FA 90T ?
 

I just acquired a Saito FA90T -- good condition but needs exhaust pipes. I don't have part #s for these. Will the flexible mufflers for the 90TS fit? I could sure use a manual for this engine; the 90TS manual won't do because there are a bunch of differences with the old 90T. Anyone know where I could lay my hands on one? I'd pay for photocopying, shipping, and a few bucks to boot.

Doug

RE: Saito 90 FA 90T ?
 

[b]The old FA-90T and the current FA-100T are odd-firing engies, the interval is 180/540 degrees between power strokes. The new FA-90TS is an even fire design.

The odd fire engine is cheaper to build with its single throw crank, The even fire engine requires a two throw crank, more expense, but it is inherently a smoother running engine, and to me a much more satisfyling engine.

But on the parts supply. Many of the parts for other models will work on yours, including any of the exhaust parts with the 10 mm thread.

Bill.

RE: Saito 90 FA 90T ?
 

Many thanks, Bill. I reckoned that the 10 mm flexible mufflers would fit.

Doug