Hi - I did not jump in on this right away beacuse I do not have a lot of experience as a model machinist. In fact I have not built an entire engine. Not yet, that is. I have been working at machining and engine rebuilding for over ten years.

Since I have not seen an answer from one of our journeyman craftsmen, here is my two bits-worth. Based mostly on what I've heard and read...

This engine is really tiny! And as one goes down is size, problems escalate in geometric proportion. Biggest prob is in getting good fits. Namely piston-cylinder. Laping a cylinder bore and a piston are hand work and an art. Its a matter of experience, judgement, and feel. Easy to learn on parts that are big enough. A 2.5 cc engine is a nice size to work with. But on something the size of the Nano 0.1, can be an exercise in frustration. Likely several discarded pistons before achieving a decent fit.

Then there is the problem of short engine life. Anyway, so I have heard...

I suggest you build a larger engine or two first. Or maybe you have. And are ready to take on the Nano? Good luck!

I would feel more comfortable if somebody who has more experience than I would give more authoritative information! Especially about this engine.

Interesting statements in the Model Engine News article, including that such small engines are almost impossible to hand start owing to such small rotating inertia. I find starting some of my smallest diesels can be a challenge. But none are THIS little!


Regards. -Gary