Hi All,
I am looking for some advice on an engine choice for the Lanier 1/4 Extra 300s. This subject has been touched upon before but some of those posts are old and the engine offerings have come a long way since then. I am not looking for 3D or unlimited performance. I just want a good reliable engine that will not be underpowered for spirited flying and not add to much weight.

The plane has 72!QUOT! span and should come in around 11 lbs & Wing Area is 953 sq.in.
Recommended engine size is 2-Stroke: .91 - 1.80, 4-Stroke: 1.20 - 1.84

Some engines I am considering are: Saito 150 or 180, Magnum 180 FRS 4-stroke, & MVVS/Evolution 26gt Gas.

I have read some posts on these engines and not sure how valid these opinions are:
Saito - vibration / fuel hog
Magnum 180- not as powerful as Saito 180, closer to Saito 150
MVVS/Evolution - Heavier and not that powerful

All my experience is with 2-stroke glow so 4-stroke and gas will be new to me.

Thanks for any information you can provide. I want to make a choice that hopefully be right the first time.

The Saito 180 IS a fuel hog if you fly it around full throttle. I doubt you'll be flying an aerobatic model around at full throttle all the time. So, thats not really a valid argument against the Saito 180 in this scenario. They will run fine on 5% or 10% nitro. You don't need the 30% that some guys run in it. They just do that because they need a little more power in a heavier bird.

I have no experience with the Magnum 180--so shouldn't comment.

I personally think gas is too heavy for a 25% plane. My rule of thumb is minimum 1000sq.in for a gas engine. But, guys are doing it more and more, so it's kind of that grey area where you could if you wanted too, but your going to pay the weight penalty for it.

Why not use a 2-stroke? They are cheaper and they put out more power than a 4-stroke. The old debate about 4-stroke torque will go on forever, but you already stated that your not flying 3D or unlimited performance. So, to me, it doesn't make sense to even consider a 4-stroke. 2-strokes are lighter, cheaper, and more powerfull. Not to mention ease of operation. 2-strokes either run or it's the fuel, carb, or plug. When 4-strokes don't run, you have to consider the cam, pushrods, valves, and rocker arms in addition to all the things mentioned about the 2-stroke.

Why not consider the OS 160FX, Moki 180, Moki 135, ST2300, Thunder Tiger 120 -- all 2-strokes. All reliable. All cheaper than a 4-stroke. All proven designs. Put the fuel tank on the CG and hook up a Cline regulator to any of those engines. You'll have a 2-stroke combination that can't be beat in terms of reliability, performance, and ease of operation.

Thanks for the reply.
You make a valid point about a 2-stroke. The OS 160FX is one I have had in the back of my mind. I have to admit I like the cheaper price tag.

I guess I am somewhat drawn to the idea of trying a 4-stroke as I have read that they are a little better on fuel and I like the realistic quieter sound. Are the newer 4-strokes more reliable than before or prone to tinkering?

Is it fair to say that this plane will be underpowered with an OS 120 III pumped 4-Stroke? The ad states, as meantioned, 120-184 FS. Knowing it is significant diff in power output btw the low vs high end engine size. Is there anyone here that has experience flying this plane with a 120 FS? Also the ad claims a flying weight of btw 9-11 lbs. Knowing this is a full kit, is there some fairly easy ways of making this plane lighter so it actualy comes in at 9 lbs? I had a GP Extra 300 .60 before and its weight was 8,37 lbs. Considering its performance I know I would not like an aerobat being hevier than 9,5 lbs using with my OS 120.
Hoping for som advice as I am searching desprate for an new Extra. I know abot CG and other makes as alternatives but are now researching this kit.

Regards,

C.