Backplate idea for conversion?
 

I have a Brillelli 25 GT conversion engine mounted on a Great Planes Super Stearman using 1 inch diameter dowels for standoffs. Like many conversions, a threaded portion of the drive shaft is exposed in the rear. Unfourtunately, the gas and vent line exit the firewall right behind the drive shaft, and my lines got chewed up by the threaded rod. Anyone have any simple ideas for covering the exposed portion, or even capping the rear portion of the engine? My initial thoughts were to get some thin aluminum and JB weld it to the back for form a backplate to the engine. Am I overlooking a simpler solution. I really wish I could just divert the lines, but it's sort of a tight turn as they exit the firewall and the threaded shaft is sitting right there....Any input would be appreciated!

Mike

RE: Backplate idea for conversion?
 

Cut it off. Use your dremmil or angle grider. Keep it cool so you don't cook the seal. I put a hex profile on the stub of one of mine. That is handy to grab it with a wrench.

RE: Backplate idea for conversion?
 

I agree, chop it off, won't hurt anything

RE: Backplate idea for conversion?
 

That stub can be used for a spring starter, so being inventive to preserve it will help. If it were up to me, I would JBweld a tube over the stub, easily removed later on.

RE: Backplate idea for conversion?
 

I dont run fuel lines through that hole. I drill a separate hole for the carb fuel line and the vent and fill line usually exit the fuse behind the firewall. I like my fuel lines anchored so they dont float around.
Edwin

RE: Backplate idea for conversion?
 

I have Toro 25cc they converted for me.
They used the shaft for the electronic Ignition.

The Toro is a great little engine, with lots of punch.

RE: Backplate idea for conversion?
 

Thanks for all of the input...I finally decided to use some aluminum flashing from Home Depot to fashion a backplate of sorts using the back of the engine as a template. The flashing was super thin and light, yet rigid. I just drilled 4 holes for the engine mounting screws and slid it on the standoffs before tightening down the little Toro 25 GT.

This is a sweet little engine for sure. I think I'm gonna run it awhile with the magneto for simplicity, and then upgrade to the electronic ignition later. Again, thanks for everyone's help.

Mike