Originally posted by Old Dutch
Buy what you wish, and can afford, not necessarily what others are using. I'm sure each one has pleased the owner, therefore the above recommendations. I have several O.S. 91 FS and several Magnums. I forget which is in what model. Unless I look at the log books, I really can't say what engine it is that I am flying. Have had each for over 5 yrs. with no problems. Just follow the mfrs. instructions on break-in and fuel....Cheers!!
There you go Dutch, good advice.
Here's the deal Matty: All of us when we have a choice
and the $$ don't really matter, will usually buy the best we can afford, and go with the best name brand we can afford.
I wouldn't hesitate for a second to buy a Magnum or Thunder Tiger if that's what my budget allowed. I'm in this for as much fun per dollar as I can get. It's easy to get caught up into the name brand thing, sure some engines may preform longer down the road. Get the Magnum or TT, mount it inverted, and fly it 5 or 6 tanks before you put the cowl on her. This way you will completely familiarize yourself with how it likes to run, start and so forth.
Don't beat up on yourself over this issue,
ANY 4 Stroke will be cleaner and cooler than a comparable two stroke (sorry, I have had both), sure the 60 two stroke will fly it, my buddy has one and it flys well (OS 60 FSR Pumped) but with a two stroke you need a Pitts muffler adding to the cost. The Magnums are a sweet deal right now so go with that, don't be ashamed and follow the break in instructions.
A couple of guys at my field have the Magnums, one in a Hog Bipe and another in a Cub (Yecch) and they fly perfectly well with no problems.
Good luck,
Mike