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How to Choose a Nitro RC Airplane Motor

Radio-controlled airplane engines can use a variety of power sources ranging from electronic batteries to vehicle grade gasoline to power flight. Nitro RC engines mix air with nitrous fuel to create combustion that provides the motors with enough power to lift the entire machine into the air. Many engines offer a variety of motor designs to fit the needs of the RC airplane enthusiast.

Instructions

- 1
  Match your aircraft to a nitrous-fueled engine that best meets your displacement needs. While the motor provides movement, it is the engine that must provide enough power through displacement. Standard displacements range from 50cc engines for lighter craft to 100cc or greater displacements designed for heavier scale models.
- 2
  Measure the clearance in your engine area. The dimensions of the motor must fit entirely in the closed engine chamber, though this step is not required if you choose a combined engine and motor unit.
- 3
  Choose either brushed or brushless motors. Brushes on the motors commonly make up the main options. Brushed motors require constant maintenance, but offer greater control with less chance of in-flight failure due to electronics glitches or other interference. Brushless motors typically cost more but require less maintenance and have less chance of mechanical-based failure.
- 4
  Determine your price range. Common motor costs in 2010 ranged from $100 to over $1,000 for top-end brushless models. A new nitro RC aficionado may wish to begin with less expensive motors until he gains enough confidence in his control to feel safe flying more expensive craft components.

Aviation