Greetings all.

Well I finally did some real testing and everything worked out very nicely indeed. Today I flew the Leo 46 in its Kadet LT25 for the second time. It is rather more than the Kadet needs but its weight is just right and I was able to remove the lead I had added to the front to balance the previously fitted ASP 30 four stroke. The engine is fitted with an OS "PBOX" muffler as the Leo did not come with one. Just bolts straight up and keeps the din down well.

The changes -

1. I fitted a rather second hand OS No 8 plug.

2. A friend mixed me up some FAI fuel. (20% oil, 80% methanol).

3. I re-adjusted the high speed needle quite a bit leaner but still running slightly rich.

The result -

1. No more pinging.

2. Easier to start with the electric starter. Was always easy to hand start and still is.

3. Will idle forever and the transition is fine.

4. Unbelievable economy. We have now made about six 5 to 10 minute flights and have only managed to use about 300mm of fuel. We are running mostly at about half power but the bloke that owns the trainer is mightily impressed by the frugal nature of this engine/plane combination. It is about as good as the 30 FS was.

Nitro? Who needs it!

I am running the same Bolly 11 1/2 x 5 prop which gives tons of performance at what sounds like sensible revs.

I suspect that this engine was made for the European market where nitro has alway been expensive and used sparingly. I have routinely used 10% in all my engines (mostly Saitos) but this engine simply does not need it and positively thrives without it. It may not be the most powerful 46 around but it is very easy to use and produces more than enough power for most sport models and trainers. My mate is so impressed, he wants to buy it from me.

Thanks to all who provided advice.