Hi guys. Thanks to Jim's (W8YE) suggestion I installed a new set of bearings ($17.00) on this engine. I had run it briefly before the storm got my shop, and none since. After the re-assembly it still won't hand start, but I am getting around 7700 rpm on a Graupner 15-8 prop, with idle around 2500. I can get the idle a bit lower, but then the transition starts to suffer. After running about 12 ounces though it, the compression is improving, and the engine seems to be loosening up. Hopefully, once the rings and everything get reseated, I'll be able to hand start it. It's not that big a deal though as my starter fires it right up. I'm curious if the upright position of the cylinder is making it harder to get it wet enough to fire. All my other installations are inverted. Any ideas or comments?

I'm going to put this engine on a BUSA Eindecker. I believe it will have plenty of power to fly it.

Roger

Did you get your bearings in town at the bearing store or the Sthil repair shop??

Jim

I have a 50cc Mac conversion, has mag type ignition with points on it, It will only hand start with the jug on the bottom, I have never been able to start that one upright without the starter, but will start in just a couple of flips inverted. Have you tried priming the cyl good with gas before flipping it to see what it does? SS

Jim, I got the bearings at the local bearing supply house. I had to remove one of the shields (five seconds), and heat the crankcase halves in the toaster oven. The rubber seals were ok, so I didn't mess with them. They are separate from the ball bearing assembly. I also replaced the bolts with allen style heads, per your suggestion. I had to make a new gasket for the cylinder/crankcase joint.

Steve, I didn't try that, but I'll give it a shot next time I have it out. I need to get the plane ready now.

Everybody, Do you think those RPM figures in line? (not that I can do much about it )