I want to get into DF jets without spending a fortune.

Has anyone ever used a car/buggy engine to run a small fan?

Most of the small .15--.26 car engines are very powerful for their size and price.

If so, what engine and fan combo did you use? What plane?

If not, is there an engine/fan unit available for a reasonable price? Something I could use in a small jet?

I already have nice coreless and digital JR mini and high torque servos. I have no problem with the electronics end of it. I've been slowly building a servo arsenal for a few years and I have a lot of nice JR servos for any plane I want to build.

I have NIB RX's coming out of my ears, as well as niMH batteries, switches, and extensions.

I just need to get the plane and power system without spending $2500. I'd like to keep the cost of the plane and power system under $1000 if possible-- or as close to that as possible.

I really like the A-10, but can't seam to find a built up model in the size I'm after. I don't mind a foam wing, but I would like a wood fuse-or composite; not an all foam plane.

Any ideas or experience with small engines and fans?

Thanks