RE: Dirty Birdy 40 - Laser Kit
Come to think of it, the PO moved those kits at lightning speed!
I'm putting a YS 45 in mine too but I've considered other engines. The fuse plans actually show the backplate bolt to drive washer distance for some typical 40-45 size engines. Most engines should fit in a Dave Brown 4650 mount. I always liked BHE glass mounts but unfortunately they are no longer made.
Here's a list of some engines that might do nicely:
[ul][*] YS 45 FS[*] OS 46 SF (-P)[*] OS 46 FX[*] Rossi 40[*] Rossi 45[*] ST S40-45[*] Webra 40 Speed[*] Webra 50 Speed/GT[*] MVVS 6.5 - 8.0 GFS/R
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These are the main Japanese and European engines but there are also the Asian imports (Magnum, TT, etc.) and American engines such as Jett's and K&B 40 and 48's. I think only the 48's are still being manufactured. Rossi is selling the 45 for about the same as a 55 AX. The current production is very nice just like in the old days but slightly more refined.
Retracts is one of those things where one has to first decide whether to go electric, pneumatic or mechanical. Mine is being built with "experimental" electrics in it.
David