A year ago, I uploaded a video of one the initial runs of this unique inline twin diesel. It is inspired by the "Clanford Clan .24 c.c" model diesel engine sold in the early to mid 1990's.
After extensive running, upon stripdown for examination, excessive conrod big end wear was noted.
As a result of this finding detail improvements have been made.
1. The owner/builder has since remade the crankshafts in a higher (tougher) grade of steel; and
2. in remaking the shafts, he has enlarged the diameter of the crankpins, the size of which he considered marginal in the original.
3. A radius has also been added to the crankpins where they meet the crank web, with matching finish to the big end eyes of each conrod facing the crank web. This is to bolster the strength of this highly loaded area and minimise cyclic flexing of the crankpins.
4. Finally, a minor but important detail. Thin paper gaskets have been installed where the bottom of the cylinder liners abut their respective machined ledges in the crankcase. The intent is to better assure a gastight seal of the casetoliner joints. The gaskets are a complete success. Leaks have now been eliminated.
The engine is now easy to start and adjust, and more powerful when peaked for maximum RPM.
It is considered ready for installation in a classic vintagetype airframe originally intended for a .5 c.c. diesel engine such as an E.D. Baby or DC Dart, adapted to 2 channel R/C (R/E).
Propeller: DaviesCharlton Nylon 6 x 4 (actual pitch closer to 3).
Fuel Composition: Not noted.