Agreed, britbrat; if I was in need of an inexpensive 40-size beginner engine, the TT 42 would definitely get the nod. But there is another contender if one is williong to shell out a few more bucks.

I haven't checked lately, but the last I knew, one could get a TT .46 Pro for around $80. As far as I'm concerned, that engine is THE benchmark for 40-46 class two strokes these days. Smooth, powerful, and very user-friendly. It will run rings around any current OS, IMO.

Yes, the LA-series of engines runs, and are adequate for someone taking his first steps. If your "combo" came with this engine, then you'll be okay.

But if you're looking to purchase an engine by itself, either for a trainer or a second plane, the extra $$ spent on a quality bearinged engine such as the TT Pro series will give back dividends down the road.

I have lost count of the number of newbies I've seen struggling at the field with junk Chinese (AND American- can you say K&B?) engines that were manufactured to a price point as opposed to a level of quality. This is not a cheap hobby. Attempts to cut corners and pinch pennies invariably come back to haunt you.