Engine mounting problem
 

So- I'm just getting started with RC planes, I was given a falcon Sr. which had some wing damage and needed some covering repair. This was all straight fwd. It also needed an engine. I was lucky enough to be given a evolution 40 by Jon Heim from the pay it fwd thread. The problem is the engine mounts to two stringers that are part of he fuselage which are two wide to take the evolution, leaving nothing to screw to. I could either- build out the stringer, not easy because the area is rough carved
or - Build a mount that sits on top of and fastens down to the existing stringers. this will raise the engine 3/8 inch
I don't know if raising the engine will be a problem or not but this seems like the easiest and most secure method.
Any Ideas?

There also is about a 1/4 inch of oil in my fuel tank, should I take it out before fueling?

Boy, getting into RC flight has been a real challenge. I am a carpenter with a young family( baby #2 is now 4 days late) and I have very little cash to spend on hobbies. I'm working with used, half built equipment with no instructions, and I hit alot of problems such as this one. I have been very lucky to find so many helpful people, on this page, at our local air field, club and hobby shop. Im grateful for all the help Im receiving.
Thanks
Joe Crecca

RE: Engine mounting problem
 

Hi Joe,

Wait until the models start reproducing if you think things are expensive now!!!:D

If the hardwood rails are too wide apart for your motor cut two strips of alloy to lenghth the correct width for your motors mounting beams. Bolt the alloy strips in place onto the hardwood rails with countersunk bolt heads or bolt at the extreme ends of firewall and front of the rail.

You can still slide your motor backwards and forward for balance and bolt it in place to the alloy rather than the engine bearer.

Cheers,

Colin

RE: Engine mounting problem
 

Remove the oil from the tank.

I suggest pulling the tank, removing the stopper and using some acetone to clean the tank out. Soak the clunk in some acetone also to get that cleaned out.

At the same time CLOSELY inspect the tubes that go through the stopper for corrosion (replace if needed OR if they are suspect) and replace the fuel line(s) inside the tank at this time also.

If the tank is not wrapped in foam, I would do that also.

RE: Engine mounting problem
 

I've seen acetone react with some plastics. Based on this I'd suggest using rubbing alcohol, or perhaps denatured alcohol, instead of acetone.

RE: Engine mounting problem
 

Your idea of using a plate is a good one. raising the engine wont be too big of a problem, but 1/4" ply is all you will need.

RE: Engine mounting problem
 

I think I am going to use 3/16 aluminum plate. I will then be able to thread the plate to take the engine bolts and countersink the screws that hold the plate to the stringers.
I need to replace the throttle linkage. The existing one is just a rod going through the fire wall, no tubing and its stiff. They have both rod and tubing or braided wire that goes through a tube at the hobby shop. Any Preferances?