Notices
Glow Engines Discuss RC glow engines

Open Rockers

Old 06-28-2003, 10:43 PM
  #1  
Flight Risk
Thread Starter
My Feedback: (1)
 
Flight Risk's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Rocky Flats, CO
Posts: 785
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Default Open Rockers

I have been wondering if the early 4-stroke glow engines with open rockers have a problem with spitting fuel/oil from the lifters or valves? Are the rockers manually oiled before each flight? I would assume that their lifespan isn't too great. The reason I ask is that I have an old timer plane which I thought would be cool with exposed rockers since some of the actual fullsize vintage engines even had open rockers. Thxs. RS
Old 06-28-2003, 11:24 PM
  #2  
FlyingPilgrim
My Feedback: (26)
 
FlyingPilgrim's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Canton, MI
Posts: 1,504
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Default Open Rockers

There is definitely a certain lure to the older open rocker 4-strokers! Yes, lube the lash point (between the push-rod and rocker arm) and where the push-rod meets the lifters before flights, but not too much oil as to attract unnecessary dirt. I have not run one myself, but I have never heard of any issues with spitting oil. I believe the reason for enclosing the push-rods was two-fold: one, to protect the fragile push-rods from being bent, and two, to provide some lubrication from normal running. These are cool looking engines, and would be right at home in an old-time craft. It would stand out on the flight line! Enjoy!
FP
Old 06-29-2003, 02:49 AM
  #3  
Flight Risk
Thread Starter
My Feedback: (1)
 
Flight Risk's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Rocky Flats, CO
Posts: 785
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Default Open Rockers

Thanks for the info FP. That makes sense. This would be a plane which is only flown occasionally, so as long as it's not spitting fuel/oil all over the place I think I would like to locate a 40-60 open rocker. I have a Playboy Senior with an 84" wing which weighs just over 5 lbs. and can fly forever at 1/4 throttle with an OS FS40. Thanks again.
RS
Old 06-29-2003, 12:17 PM
  #4  
jaka
 
Join Date: Dec 2001
Location: Upplands Vasby, SWEDEN
Posts: 7,816
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes on 3 Posts
Default Open Rockers

Hi!
I have been running those fourstrokes for the last 25 years and no oiling of the rockerarms are necessary as often as before every flight.
Of course oiling now and then can be done but it is not necessary to do so.


Regards!
Jan K
Sweden
Old 07-04-2003, 10:21 PM
  #5  
Flight Risk
Thread Starter
My Feedback: (1)
 
Flight Risk's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Rocky Flats, CO
Posts: 785
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Default Open Rockers

Hey all! I just picked up a Saito FA-30 open rocker engine. It was pretty gunked up but I cleaned it and is now purring nicely. I have a couple questions. First I understand that the letter marking on the mounting lug indicates it's date. Mine has a B. Any ideas of age on this? Also it has a pressure nipple on both the header pipe and muffler. It came with the crankcase pressure bleed hooked to the header. That doesn't seem right. Shouldn't the crank vent to air? Unless the crank puts out enough pressure to overcome the exhaust pressure.

FR
Old 07-05-2003, 12:34 AM
  #6  
FlyingPilgrim
My Feedback: (26)
 
FlyingPilgrim's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Canton, MI
Posts: 1,504
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Default Open Rockers

You are correct regarding the vent nipple on the crankcase. Leave it vented to open atmosphere. If you want, you can run a short length of fuel line to it and out of your cowl (if enclosed engine) just to keep it from spitting oil all over your firewall. Regarding the nipples on your exhaust, you only need one. I would suggest blocking off the one on the header tube, and use the one on your muffler for tank pressure.

FP
Old 07-05-2003, 03:57 AM
  #7  
Flight Risk
Thread Starter
My Feedback: (1)
 
Flight Risk's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Rocky Flats, CO
Posts: 785
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Default Open Rockers

Thanks for the info FP. I think I will block the header nipple so that the muffler nipple will get better pressure and I'll connect a short tube to the crankcase to get rid of drips

FR

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off


Thread Tools
Search this Thread

Contact Us - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Terms of Service -

Copyright © 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use.