The OS LA-40 engine comes pre-mounted. However, it is not directly bolted to the engine mount. Instead, it is "clamped" on each side by two pieces of metal that ARE bolted to the engine mount. I have no idea why it's mounted this way. But, I'm wondering if anyone has had any problems with this. Is the engine actually mounted securely enough that I shouldn't worry about it? Or, should I remove the "clamp" setup, and drill new holes to bolt the engine directly to the engine mount?

Incidentally, so far I'm impressed with the quality of the construction and installations on this ARF. I hope it flies as well as it looks.

I never had any problems. Just make sure that the clamps are tight!

Thanx for the reply. I'll go ahead an give it a try!

Have had no problems as yet. Avistar and 40LA are currently my training set up. Love the Avistar. The 40LA is a low power engine, but good enough for a student flying off asphalt or low grass.

Thanx for the word. I'm gonna try to teach my twin nine-year-old grandkids how to fly RC. Could have used the flat-bottom wing instead, but I'll attach an FMA "co-pilot" to the bird (as well as a buddy box) and that should help them over the humps. Never used an auto-pilot before, but from what I 've read they're the cat's meow for first-time flyers. That way, as they progress, they can also learn a bit of aerobatics using the semi-symetrical airfoil on the Avistar.

Uh, I guess I give away my age when I say "cat's meow." It's just that I have never yet learned how to say "koo-wuhl" the way the younger generation can.

I have installed an OS 40 FX into the same mount, Aslong as it is plenty tight and you check them regularly, shouldnt be a problem, Im very happy with that plane and engine. easy learning too.

Mine cracked through the rear bolt holes on one side and the engine almost fell out. Only the throttle linkage kept it in place! No hard landings and about 10 flights on the plane.

Murray