[motordude]

Hello all!
I am considering developing and designing a 4 stroke engine for model use. I would like to know how you at the zone consider the market! I was thinking of 3 options sold individually:
a) Sell 2D plans only.
b) Sell 2D plans & 3Dmodels.
c) Sell castings and plans. Everything you need is in the box, semi finished. Carbs and ignition included. In all; everything you need to get the engine running.

I am an IC engine designer/engineer, but not familiar with the model scene;
what kind of engine specs would be popular (inline twin, v-twin, fours etc.? Displacement pr. cylinder (ccm)? Is a reduction gear required?

Estimated prices for a Twin 180 deg crank, DOCH, approx 35-75 ccm:
a)200 Euro
b)500 Euro
c)12-1500 Euro

All castings (Aluminium, cast iron & steel) will be investment castings. Thanks for all feedback!

Best regards
John

[Swede]

John I can speak only for myself as an engine enthusiast, so take this for what it's worth...

I LOVE aircraft engines. They must be:

4-stroke (true oil system)
air-cooled (this usually isn't a problem!)
At least 2 cylinders.
And as close to scale as you can get.

If you are investment casting parts, then you should be able to get some incredible detail. I think the engine which is the standard-bearer for beauty is Bob Roache's P&W Wasp Jr. in 1/6 scale. I was hoping that it would be on the mini-engine museum page

http://www.engine-museum.com/index.html

but I couldn't find it. If you have Strictly IC backissues, there are photos of this engine in there. The heads were wax-cast by Bruce Satra. Unbelievable detail.

I wouldn't mind paying significant money for castings if they have the accuracy and detail I crave.

Do you have a picture of the proposed design?