There were no more problems with the DA as there are on any other engine, and in fact, the so-called 'problems" were far more isolated than a lot of people would have you believe here on RCU. I would put money on it that a few people saw actual crank failures with their own eyes and the rest "heard" of them. I also would debate that prop balance and strikes had a lot more do with the failures than did the original crank design, but nevertheless DA stepped up and of course, no one has prop strikes and everyone meticulously balances their props.

I fly 3Ws as well - but also have DA50s for my 2 small planes - its the strongest and lightest 50cc out there bar none. I have an older one with 250 flights on it - original rod, original crankshaft. I also have a brand new one as well that has 30 flights on it.

I would not worry about any perceived "problems" .. if you want a DA50, just go buy one and fly it, chances are you will never have a single problem with it.. new crank or old and if you do ever have a problem DA will stand behind it better than anyone out there.

All engines are going have issues eventually, they are high maintenance items. If you look at the history of our model engines in general you will probably find 3W, DA, and Brison have the best records overall and that within the last 2-3 years there are probably LESS problems overal with the DA.

DP