I have a used DLE30 - have owned it for over a year and am just now starting to run it. The problem is it is very hard to start - it occasionally backfires and sometimes does not start at all. I have re-built the carb, re-set the needle setting to default, and still have the problems (my arm was sore last week from so much prop flipping!) With the plug cap off and the plug inserted I'm getting spark, just fine. When I DO get it running it runs great at mid-high RPM's - but when I bring it down to idle it seems to idle fine for 10 seconds and then dies and then I can't get it restarted. But something that ahicks (HEY, Ahicks!) just said tells me that there may be a problem with the boot insulation (though I don't SEE any crack in it.) So I'm now thinking it's either something electrical \ no spark, or the reed valves are not seating flat. Last night I rigged up a completely different electrical system on this plane \ engine (from new spark plug, Halls sensor, EI, IBEC, power switch, and battery) and will try starting it tonight when I get home. If it's not that then I'm guessing it's the reed valve. Question - would the exact location of the Hall sensor make much of a difference? I have it positioned in the middle of the pre-drilled holes in the crankcase, so I'd think that should be good. Any advice is welcome. I GOTTA get this engine running! (I will post my findings tomorrow) (btw - I also have a DLE 20, 30, and 35 - all running)

Thanks.