I don't know where my original response to the OP's post got to, but such is the internet.

I'm with you regarding a .91 four-stroke for the PT-60. But I'm partial to the putt-putters of late (four-strokes).

The funny thing about all of these opinions (mine included) is that they all make good points. I'm sure that any of the engines mentioned/suggested will work just fine and will provide lots of enjoyable flight time for anyone that uses them.

The only down side to the OS .65 LA is that it is a bit sensitive to lubrication in the fuel. Not many folks want to be bothered adding castor oil to their fuel, especially when just starting out. This engine needs more oil than the other engines mentioned because it utilizes bushings (plain bearings) instead of ball bearings to support the crankshaft. If you don't mind buying and then adding an extra four to six ounces of oil (preferably castor oil) to the fuel, then the OS.65LA is an excellent choice. You get the pleasant handling and reliability of an OS engine and you save a bit of money when compared to the more expensive OS.61FX, which is a good engine if you aren't power hungry or too weight conscious. If Bax, Tower's technical representative, says not to worry about adding extra oil to the fuel for the OS.65LA, then I will accept that as "the word" and will not mention it again. Hobbsy's recommendation carries a lot of weight with me too.

I would only recommend the Super Tigre engines if your instructor is an "engine man" as we know them in the hobby. Once broken-in and set up properly, they are excellent engines and are among the longest lasting engines in production. However, if your "instructor" is a newb himself, less than four years in the hobby, he probably doesn't know how to run the engine properly and you will do more fiddling than flying. Mind you, like all rules, there are exceptions and your instructor may well be one of them. Do you know if he is regarded as an engine man?

Actually, I've wondered why no one has suggested the Tower .61 or .75 yet. Excellent warranty, lots of power, good reputation. I see no reason not to mention it. Oh, and it is attractively priced too. Not to mention that these engines will burn any over the counter fuel around these days.

Good luck, regardless what you decide. Come back and tell us later what you did and how you're making out. Good luck and Happy New Year.


Ed Cregger