Advantages of diesels:

1. Ability to swing larger props (because the ignition timing can be adjusted by varying the compression ratio). You can run 13-15 inch props efficiently with the .46 engine.

2. Cooler and much quieter (sp?) running.

3. More power/torque (especially with larger props).

4. Lower fuel comsumption - the optimum fuel/air mixture ratio is higher (approx 15:1 for diesel vs 8:1 for glo) thereby allowing you to use a smaller fuel tank (about 50-60% of the size for glo). The fuel/air mixture is much leaner - that is why engines with smaller carb openings are not a problem.

5. No glo plugs or glo starter required - sorry forgot about this one.

Disadavantages:

1. Smell - because of the kerosene content of diesel fuel. Others, including myself are experimenting with Biodiesel as a substitute for kerosene, which is much better in this respect - in fact, depending on what the Biodiesel is made from it can smell like french fries.

2. Black mess - again Biodiesel is much better in this respect as it does not require as much lubricant due to its higher lubricity (so far it seems like less than 10% lube is necessary). Also, because diesels are much less sensitive to exhaust back-pressure, you can run a tube to the back of the airplane thereby keeping the mess almost completely off the airplane.

3. Limited availability of diesel fuel at LHS's.

I make these conversions for several engines now from .15 to .46 sizes. When (and if) the decision the is made to make them commercially available, they should run $20-$25 each.

If you are interested to try one of these on the Leo/Mecoa .46, let me know and I will send you one FREE to play with.

RT
[email protected]