What engine size to use in a RC plane

by Michael Matus
(Los Osos, Ca.)

All RC planes give an engine range size. Since I'm still learning I usually go with the smaller engine. But I realize that putting a larger engine in the plane and throttling back would work as well.

It's just that I'm concerned about over powering the plane and getting myself into trouble. Any suggestions?

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Depends on a lot
by: rcdude07

The answer of your question depends on a lot of factors:
What size is the plane?
Wet fuel vs electric
Weight of plane?
Type of performance you are looking for.

If you are buying kits (like us old nitro flyers) there is a suggested range of engine sizes for the kit. The low end range typically provides adequate power while the higher end of the range provides considerably more power and faster flight.

Electric motors involve much more though in # of turns, Kv rating, the prop or range of props you'll be using, and weight of plane.

I would recommend you build a few kits using suggested recommendations for power plants until you get an idea of power plants for size of planes.

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motor in planes.
by: tommy

When I started to fly (instructor assisted), I had minimum motor in the plane (a cheap .40) and a strong wind hit and it took over the plane. It turned into the wind and at wide open throttle it barely was coming home, so I said take it and he flew it like a sailboat and later landed on the strip with no damage. I thanked him and said I'm wiser now and I replaced the motor with a .47 top of the line. After I soloed I had the problem again, and was alone so I did as the instructor except I stalled about 4 ft. off the deck and sprung the gear. Also if you go bigger motor rebalance your plane as desired!

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