O-K I have always gone with the recommended engines in my planes, usually the biggest one recommended. I just bought a SE used. I was thinking about putting a TT 61 in it. Has anybody ever done this or seen it done? Will I be asking for problems? I have never had a 4 stroke engine and know a lot of people use them, but they seem to be expensive and something about having to adjust the things after awhile. Anyway would like to stick with 2 stroke. What do ya'll think about a 61 in a SE? Am I screwing up by not trying a 4 stroke? Thanks for the help.

I have a saito .72 four-stroke in my SE and it was a tight fit. I used my dremel with a drum sander to make room in the cheeks for the carb and high speed needle. You may need to make a modification similar to this for the .61 you propose.

On the other hand, if you do go with a four-stroke, you will be absolutely happy, as I am with mine. Unlimited vert with a .72 and a 12x8 APC prop. One thing to be aware of is that with the longer diameter props that four-strokes are capable of swinging, you may need to get taller landing gear and/or larger diameter tires.

I used the recommended 2 and 3/4" tires, but used the taller landing gear from TNT.

IMO the .60 would be too heavy.
You'd have to add lots of lead in the tail.

I think the .61 would be too heavy too. The plane is supposed to be as light as possible for better aerobatic performance. I believe you should look for something like a Webra Speed .50 or Irvine .53 if you want more power than a good .46 will deliver.

I have a TT Pro .46 with a Tower muffler in mine. It's strong enough to hover and slightly pull out with a Zinger 11 x 5. I imagine I would get much better results with a 3.5 or 4 pitch prop, but there aren't any around this area. I ordered an APC 11 x 4 this winter to try out, but haven't used it yet.

I have no experience with the 4 strokes, but most of what I've read says the Saito's have more power per ounce than OS and Magnums.

Tim

Sure.... I put the OS 0.61FX in mine and never regretted it.

It fit.... tight, but it fit...

The only problem you'll have is trying to find prop clearance for the type of props you'll want to use. Go for the aftermarket fiberglass gear.

One more question - Do I have to use the wire braces on the vertical and horizon stabs?

Look at it this way, it'll help balance off that 0.61!

Use the braces . . . especially if you use built-up epennage.

I used a Webra Speed 50 on mine. Lots of power and light. Small as the engine compartment is, I think the larger engine would be a pain. To each is own.

JIM

I got mine used - the previous owner had an Irvine .46 it it. A YS .53 dropped into the existing mounts. I did replace the stock landing gear with a set from TNT. It flies wonderfully (and required No Lead for balancing!)

have 4 s o.s. in mine,love the motor flys anyway you want.about every 6 or so years you may need to adjust valves,piece of cake,us 4s you may never go back to 2s.

P.S. 4 stroke 70 O.S.

same here, os 70 surpass

I have built and flown several SE's since they first came out.

My current SE is powered by an OS .61 SF with a tuned pipe running 25% nitro Omega fuel.

This is the 9th engine I have used on the SE and it is my favorite by far.

I can still do all the usual 3D stuff like torque rolls and hovering but it also has REALLY EXCELLENT VERTICAL PERFORMANCE.

The engine is now partially enclosed and uses a 2 3/4 inch spinner.

I moved both the elevator and rudder servos back to just in front of the stab.

The rudder is 3/4 inch longer - The elevator is also 3/4 inch longer with counter-balances added (see attached picture) NOW it REALLY does 3D and knife edge!!

I opened up the bulkhead behind the stock tank location so I could install a 14 ounce tank.

The landing gear is taller and is off a Great Planes Extra 300-40 which gave me the clearance to run the 12X7 APC prop.

After over 200 flights the wing tube began to loosen and make a horrible noise vibrating and was allowing the wings to move about so I bolted the wings to the fuselage sides.

BTW: DO NOT leave off the tail wires. If you start to really wring the SE out the tail feathers will fail with out the wires.

Built mine from the kit. Lightened everything up, did the rudder and elevator mods. Put an Ivine 53 in it with a 13x6. AUW is 4 3/4 lbs. Thrust is around 8 lbs. Take the bow out of the stock gear and the 13x6 clears nicely.

Mike