Engine Offset
 

I need information. Why is that on some planes, the engine is offset from center line of plane? Why is the engine mounted to the left of center?

Thanks

RE: Engine Offset
 

Engines create tourqe as they run (for reasons which I will not bother to explain). The larger the engine, the more tourque. The larger the airframe to the ammount of tourqe will deaden some of the effects.

Its all a balancing act performed by you, the tourqe of the engine, and the airframe. Thats why on takeoff with almost every plane you will need to hold a little rudder to compensate for the tourqe. Some planes have right and/or down thrust built into the firewall to compensate for the effects of tourqe during flight.

Follow the plans and you will be fine [8D]

RE: Engine Offset
 

Right.

The torque produced by the engine will tend to pull the plane to the left, especially when taking off or when quickly hitting full throttle during slow flight.

The engine is offset to the left so that you can add right thrust and still have the prop shaft in the center of the cowl. Right thrust will help to counteract the left torque generated by the engine.

Many planes, trainers in particular, will also have down thrust to counteract the high lift generated by the flat bottom airfoil of the wing.

These explanations are an oversimplification, but they'll give you the right idea.

Welcome to RCU!
Dennis-

(edited for spelling.)

RE: Engine Offset
 

I didn't see where the previous responses answered your question so I will try. On most engines you have to add right thrust. This will make the spinner be off to the right of the center of the cowl. To over come this, you need to mount the engine to the left of center so that the spinner is lined up with the cowl.

RE: Engine Offset
 

Thanks for all the info guys! i appreciate all the good answers!

Cheers!

RE: Engine Offset
 

Funny, I thought I'd just said that. ;)\
Dennis-