Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

I've got a 30cc engine out of my busted wacker. I got it out and torn down only to figure out the next day that it runs clockwise from the front. The question is if I figure out an ignition setup can I run this engine counterclockwise without damaging it? The crank doesn't look offset and it's a reed valve engine.
I can post pics of anything if needed.

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

It will run backwards with no problems, if you get the ignition setup properly.

If you want to stay with spark ignition, the easiest way would be to use electronic ignition from www.ch-ignitions.com. The sensor mount can easily be put where you want it to run in either direction.

Another way would be to go with what we call "Gas/Glow". It uses a special fuel mix, and a glow plug and can easily run in either direction with no mods.

AV8TOR

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

I've read up on both of those. Some people have said that the Walbro carbs aren't too happy with alcohol though. I'd rather not have to tear this thing down every season.
Is there anything wrong with keeping the stock ignition and altering the flywheel to change the timing? It's set with a woodruff key so I could mill a new slot it easily.

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

Actually it's the Zama carbs that don't like Gas-Glow.

Walbro carbs are very happy with the Gas-Glow mix.:D

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

Buy a pusher prop......

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

Jester: What are you going to put this engine in? What you use it in could make a difference!!! Capt,n;)

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

I haven't decided yet. I'm a new flyer and only have a .40 sized trainer now. I'm only messing with this thing now because I have it already and was tired of stepping over the whacker in my shed. I'm thinking some kind of basic sport flyer though once I feel like I'm ready for it, or maybe a warbird.

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

Hello.
IMHO It's easier to take 4 screws out and put a new 2-dollar diaphragm in carburetor then mill something down and play with timing just to find out later that you missed something and ruined the engine. OR buy a pusher prop

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

Okay, if your engine runs the opposite way and you install one of these CH ignitions how do you go about making it run opposite? Is it covered in the instructions?



Layne...

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

You time it for the direction you want it to run.

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

Don't want to come across as stupid, so I'm going to read up on this lol



Layne...

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

Gee thats a novel approach

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

You want the engine to fire about 29 degrees before top dead center. Since 360 is top dead center..I think you can subtract 29 from 360...which is 331 degrees. If you think about it more you will get the Idea. Or use a degree wheel for oppisite rotation. Best Regards Capt,n;)

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

Thanks captinjohn appreciate the help! Wow dirtybird, that seemed kinda harsh there, but I'm sure I took it the wrong way.



Layne...

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

For $35.00 CH will set it up for you.
Send them the engine and a check and forget the head and the heart aches.

RE: Reversing weedeater engine direction?
 

The bad thing about doing this is. The prop hub can unscrow.. wach it.. it will come off and hit you.
Paul