O.S. Engines 160FX-FI - Manual (Page 19)

GLOWPLUGS
The role of the glowplug
Glowplug life
Particularly in the case of very high performance engines, glowplugs must be regarded as
expendable items.
Install a plug suitable for the engine.
Use fuel containing a moderate percentage of nitromethane unless more is essential for racing
events.
Do not run the engine too lean and do not leave the battery connected while adjusting the
needle.
However, plug life can be extended and engine performance maintained by careful use, i.e.:
With a glowplug engine, ignition is initiated by the application of a 1.5-volt power source. When the
battery is disconnected, the heat retained within the combustion chamber remains sufficient to
keep the plug filament glowing, thereby continuing to keep the engine running. Ignition timing is
'automatic' : under reduced load, allowing higher rpm, the plug becomes hotter and, appropriately,
fires the fuel/air charge earlier; conversely, at reduced rpm, the plug become cooler and ignition is
retarded.
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Since the compatibility of glowplug and fuel may have a marked effect on performance and
reliability, it may be worthwhile to choose the R/C type plug found most suitable after tests.
O.S. No.8 plug is supplied with the engine. Recommended O.S. plug are No.8 and Type F is suitable to use
for richer mixture. Carefully install plug finger-tight, before final tightening with the correct size plug
wrench.
Apart from when actually burned out, a plug may need to be replaced because it no longer
delivers its best performance, such as when:
When to replace the glowplug
Filament surface has roughened and turned white.
Filament coil has become distorted.
Foreign matter has adhered to filament or plug body has corroded.
Engine tends to cut out when idling.
Starting qualities deteriorate.
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CARE AFTER USE
First vent the pressure from the fuel tank. Next, drain any fuel in the fuel tank. Turn on the
transmitter and receiver switches but do not heat the plug. Move the transmitter engine control
lever to the center position without heating the plug, and then turn the engine over with the
electric starter several times. (This is done to discharge any fuel between the tank and the
injector.) Pour a little after-run oil in the air valve and turn over the engine with the starter several
times.
In order to maintain the engine in the optimum state, it is important to vent any residual gas
generated during engine operation as quickly as possible. In addition, since this engine uses a
manifold and tuned silencer, residual gas may be present in these components as well. It is
recommended to remove the tuned silencer after use and store it.
Connectors and leads are arranged in the engine compartment. They be soiled with dust or
other debris. (This can cause a malfunction.) Clean these components to prevent them from
becoming soiled as much as possible. Do not use paint thinner, gasoline or other cleaners that
erode plastic when cleaning.
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