Hello, apologies in advance as I'm brand new to the rc engine world.

I need an engine recommendation for a project I'm working on.

The engine needs a good, solid ~6 hp. More is better, of course, but 5~6 would be sufficient.
It needs to have a recoil starter. It cannot use spring start, or be hand propped. The project is not weight critical, so it doesn't have to be the lightest engine out there. Would prefer that it not be tuned to within an inch of its life. Reliability is important. This will not be a racer. Would also prefer not using a battery ignition.

I've been looking at the Zenoah's, specifically the G62, and there is definitely some potential there. However, I've been unable to find a suitable option for the recoil starter.

I've been pointed in the direction of 3W, DLE, and DA engines, and they many of them might work from a power perspective. Sadly, recoil options have been even more elusive w/ these.

Maybe I'm looking in the wrong places. Would sure be grateful for any suggestions.

-thanks.

Have you spoken directly with 3W ? They have had many starter options available for quite a while that are not necessarily listed on the dealers websites. They may have something suitable that you aren't aware of

Otherwise if weight isn't super critical and it won't be doing high negative G's, consider something like the converted Honda Engines that some have used - I don't know who in your area would do the conversion for you but I am sure someone will chime in and let you know.

Also speak directly to Ralph Cunningham and ask if he can do a Zenoah "Zip start" conversion (I don't have his direct contact details - maybe someone can PM them to you).

To get a recoil, you might also consider looking at boat and car applications. Airplanes are about the least likely, from my experience anyway.

How about 'letric start?
http://www.milehighrc.com/EME70CC.html

Could an external electric start be used, like is used with glow powered helicopters? Long start shaft with hex ball on the end.

Tell us more about your project please.

Originally Posted by .com

Tell us more about your project please.

Fair enough.
I've been thinking about an ultralight, self launching glider, and thus, the recoil start requirement.
Would prefer to avoid having the weight and complexity of batteries for electric start.

My primary engine candidate up to now has been a Radne Raket 120 on a pod.

Recently, I started considering using a pair of smaller, lighter engines.
More design options open up when one doesn't have to account for a large, single prop.
Also, smaller engines tend to require lighter mounts.

The early model Lazair ultralight was able to fly w/ a pair of 5.5 hp Pioneer chainsaw engines.
Granted, the performance wasn't stellar, but it worked. I suspect it would be sufficient for a very lightweight glider.
Not averse to converting chainsaws, but would really prefer using some production RC engines, if suitable ones could be found.

There are some really nice engines from DA, 3W, etc. but the prices seem to spiral up rapidly.
If the cost of a pair exceeds ~1.5X the cost of a Raket 120 (1000 or so), I'd probably just stick with the larger, single engine.

thanks.

Do not worry about the $$$$....worry about your life !