os32 sxh engine question?
 

ive been flying my .30 size heli for about 4 years now with the same engine. Os32sxh---i run an enya #3 plug and 30% cool power--this has always been a reliable engine for me with good power--ive havent touched the needle valve for a very long time--the other day when flying--the engine seems to bog down at full stick now and doesnt seem to have the power it had before--i checked the pitch and all seemed ok--my question then is how do you know when your engine is losing it--is that a sign?--do i need to replace my engine and what do you think is the average life on a heli engine??....thanks .....joe :confused:

os32 sxh engine question?
 

I wouldnt replace the engine, sounds like she's ready for a new piston, and sleeve. You will have to break in the engine again after installing, here is the link to towerhobbies replacement parts for the OS32, its like $59.00 for new piston , and sleeve. Daz...
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...pgm?I=OSMG1940

os32 sxh engine question?
 

Your problem may not be engine wear. It could be related to other maintenance issues. How much time is there on the engine? How much fuel have you run thru it? Is your fuel old stock or new stock? How often do you check and maintain the fuel system components? It could be the that the Enya #3 needs replacing? etc. Perhaps you should drop the engine out and disassemble it and have a look inside. If you do need a new piston and liner you can go offshore and get a ringed piston and liner (hard to find here) or buy a stock ABN replacement piston and liner for much less than Tower gets or you can buy
a Performance Specialties true ABC Piston and Liner set for about $15 more than Tower's stock OS parts but the PS parts will last a long long time. You probably should consider replacing both the front and rear bearings as well if you switch out the piston and liner.

os32 sxh engine question?
 

And once you've replaced the piston/liner and both bearings, you've spent as much as an engine almost. My opinion, if and I say IF you need a new piston/liner then it's time to just replace the engine. Don't forget, after 4 years, the o'rings are about shot, the needle and needle seat are probably worn, etc, etc.

Barry