Congratulations on your purchase of a Thunder Tiger Four-stroke model engine. These engines represent the
latest in Thunder Tiger design and manufacturing techniques employing advanced CAD design and CNC
manufacturing. All major components of Thunder Tiger engines are machined from the highest quality materials in
our state-of-the-art manufacturing plant. Engines are then subjected to rigorous quality control checks to ensure
that your engine will provide years of trouble-free use.
The F series powerhouse engines are the ultimate in four-stroke performance: the ability to swing a large prop,
increased torque, reduced noise and improved fuel economy. Featuring a twin-needle updraft carburetor, black
anodized cylinder head, oversized valves, and a high-performance silencer for best power-to-weight ratio.
Precision air bleed carburetor makes adjustments simple, and efficient mufflers keep things quiet at the field.
Perfect for the pilot looking for the authentic aircraft sound.
IMPORTANT
This engine will provide you with years of safe use, provided that you carefully follow these safety instructions:
1.
This model engine IS NOT A TOY, but a powerful miniature engine that is capable of inflicting damage to
both people and property if misused.
2.
Always mount the engine securely in a test stand or high-quality engine mount. Never, ever attempt to clamp
your engine in a vise.
3.
When operating your engine keep all spectators at least 20 feet away.
4.
Make sure that you use the correct propeller for your engine. Specific recommendations are listed in this
manual.
5.
Make sure that the propeller nut is securely fastened before each flight.
6.
Keep yourself away from the path of the propeller when running your engine.
7.
Keep your hands away from the propeller. Always use a “ Chicken Stick” or electric starter to start your
engine.
8.
Make all adjustments to the engine and carburetor from behind the propeller.
9.
Never use your hands or any other part of your body to stop the propeller. Do not throw any object into
the propeller to stop the engine. Cut off the fuel supply by removing the fuel line, pinching it closed, or
closing the throttle barrel completely.
10.
Never use a propeller that is cracked, nicked or damaged in any way.
11.
It is recommended that you wear safety glassed when operating any model engine.
12.
Do not run your engine around dirt, sand or loose gravel. Such material can be thrown into your eyes by the
propeller. In addition, the engine can be damaged by these materials entering the carburetor.
13.
Take care to keep all loose clothing, rags, tools, etc. away from the propeller.
14.
Keep all fuel lines, glow clips, etc. away from the propeller.
15.
Take care when handling your engine after running. Model engines get very hot during operation!
16.
Always operate your engine with proper ventilation. Model engines produce toxic fumes when run in a closed
room or confined area.
The following items are necessary for operating your engine, and are available from your local hobby supplier.
■Fuel
A good quality, commercially available fuel containing 20% oil and 10-15% nitro is recommended for use in
Thunder Tiger four-stroke engine. Fuels containing a blend of both castor and synthetic oils is best. Fuels
containing only castor oil are not recommended! (during breaking-in period, it is recommeded to use fuel
containing at least 20% lubrication oil.)
■Glow Plug
Four-stroke engines produce one explosion for every two revolutions. A specific type of glow
plug is required for your four-stroke engine. The type and quality of glow plug used in your
engine can affect overall performance and reliablity. For Thunder Tiger four-stroke engine, we
Glow Plug
strongly recommend Thunder Tiger’s new Red Line RF high-performance glow plug #9776.
Other brands of glow plug such as O.S.:Type F, Saito:P-1, Hangar9 #3010 and McCoy MC-4C
are also suitable for your Thunder Tiger four-stroke engine.
■Glow Starter
Glow Starter
1.2~1.5V power source for heating the glow plug during engine start up. Thunder Tiger offers a
series of rechargable glow starters to suit your power requirements.
■Plug Wrench
Used for tightening the glow plug as well as the propeller nut. A Thunder Tiger #1102 4-way
wrench is recommended.
Plug Wrench
■Fuel Pump or Bottle
Required to fill the fuel tank on your model . A Thunder Tiger hand-crank pump (#1645) or
12V electric pump ( #1658) are available from your hobby dealer.
Fuel pump
■Chicken Stick / Safety Stick
Used to flip the propeller when starting the engine by hand. Never use your fingers to start a model engine!
■Electric Starter
Most engines can be started quickly with an electric starter. Used with a 12 volt battery, it is
the safest and most convenient method.
■Propeller
Suggested propeller sizes are shown in the table below, with allowances for different type of
aircraft and performance goals. Factors such as aircraft weight, size, flying style will affect your
choice of props. After break-in, select the optimum prop size and test-fly. Begin your tests with suggested
propeller sizes in the table below:
It is very important to use a well-balanced propeller and spinner. An unbalanced propeller or spinner can
cause substantial damage to both the aircraft and engine.
■Fuel Tank
Choose a proper fuel tank as recommended by the manufacurer of your airplane kit. Thunder Tiger offers a
series of fuel tanks that are available at your hobby dealer.
■Fuel Line
Choose a high quality, silicone fuel line for use with your Thunder Tiger engine.
54
INSTALLATION OF THE ENGINE
Mount your engine securely to rigid hardwood rails ( e.g.
maple) or a radial engine mount of metal or glass-filled nylon
composite. The top surfaces of the motor mount must be
absolutely flat and parallel to avoid crankcase distortion and
FIG.1
F
S
E
stress. Ensure that only the highest quality mounting hardware
such as hardened steel screws, etc are used to secure your
C
engine. In order to reduce engine noise and vibrations, a
D
dampening engine mount can also be used. Please refer the
FIG.1 and the table for these engines external dimensions.
B
A
H(mm/in.)
51.0/2.01
54.0/1.13
60.0/2.36
67.0/2.64
S(thread)
1/4-28
1/4-28
5/16-24
5/16-24
Item
F-54S
F-75S
F-91S
F-130S
A(mm/in.)
79.0/3.11
81.9/3.22
92.5/3.64
96.2/3.79
B(mm/in.)
57.0/2.24
57.4/2.26
66.5/2.62
68.5/2.70
C(mm/in.)
99.8/3.93
101.3/3.99
117.7/4.63
121.8/4.80
D(mm/in.)
81.5/3.21
83.0/3.27
95.7/3.77
99.3/3.91
E(mm/in.)
20.0/0.79
20.0/0.79
25.0/0.98
25.0 /0.98
G
H
F(mm/in.)
44.0/1.73
45.0/1.77
52.0/2.05
58.0/2.28
G(mm/in.)
35.6/1.40
36.5/1.44
43.0/1.69
46.0/1.81
■Fuel Tank Installation
The fuel tank should be mounted as close to the engine as possible. Ideally, the center line of the fuel tank should
be level with the needle valve. The design of your aircraft will determine actual tank location, but use the above
instruction as a general guideline for best performance. Fuel tank location can affect overall engine performance.
Ensure your fuel system is sealed and well-constructed to avoid eventual fuel or air leakages. If possible, wrap
your fuel tank with high quality foam rubber to reduce fuel foaming from airframe vibration.
■Glow Plug Installation
Use a 4-way wrench to insert the glow plug into your engine. Be careful not to use excessive force, ensure the
plug is tight and the copper washer is properly sealed beneath the glow plug.
■Muffler Installation
After the engine is mounted on your model or test stand, secure the muffler to the exhaust pipe. Screw the
exhaust pipe into the cylinder head at the desired angle and secure with the jam nut.
■Propeller Installation
Mount a suitable propeller securely to your engine. If using a spinner, ensure the cut-out area for the propeller
blades offer adequate clearance so that no part of the prop is touching the spinner.
Caution
If a four-stroke engine is run too lean or under excessive loads, pre-ignitation occurs in the combustion
chamber (called “ knocking“ or “detonation”). This condition will cause unusual vibrations and could
possibly damage the engine! The biggest danger, however, is that these vibrations often loosen the prop nut
and send the propeller flying off the engine. Please ensure the prop nut is always fastened securely!
ENGINE BREAK-IN
Proper break-in is critical to the life of any model engine. During this period, the precision metal parts of the
engine are properly mated and worn in. It is critical that the engine be run in an area free from excessive dirt and
sand. Your engine may be broken-in on a test bench or mounted on your model. Both methods are fine,
however, a test bench allows you to keep the engine away from dirt as well as making adjustments easier.
76
■Break-in checklist
(A) Use the proper fuel and glow plug as described in NECESSARY ACCESSORIES.
(B) Select the proper propeller as recommended in the propeller chart.
(C) Ensure the high-speed needle valve is opened 2-3/4~ 3 turns.
(D) We strongly recommend the use of a tachometer when tuning a four-stroke engine. Although the carburetor
adjustments are the same, four-stroke engines cannot be tuned by sound like a 2-stroke. Use of a tachometer
will eliminate the risk of damaging your engine by running it too lean.
■Starting the engine
(A) Ensure the glow plug and propeller are installed and properly tightened.
(B) Ensure the fuel lines are properly connected, with the fuel pick-up connected to the carburetor and the
pressure line connected to the muffler pressure nipple.
(C) Ensure the muffler is properly installed.
(D) Fill the fuel tank.
(E) Prime the engine using the following steps (ensure the glow plug igniter is NOT connected!)
1. Open the carburetor to full throttle.
2. Apply the starter and rotate the propeller for 5~6sec, or until you notice fuel draining from the carb.
(F ) Adjust the throttle to 25% open.
(G) Rotate the prop clockwise until you feel the prop hits compression stroke.
(H) Connect the glow plug igniter.
( I ) Start the engine counterclockwise using an electric starter or “Chicken Stick”.
Caution
When using an electric starter, never attempt to start a flooded engine. Although the electric starter may
turn the engine over, it can damage the connecting rod and/or other components. If the engine is flooded,
simply remove the glow plug, turn the engine over and spin the propeller with electric starter or
“ Chicken-Stick”. The excess fuel will be forced out the glow plug hole.
■During Break-in
(A) Do not exceed 5,000 R.P.M.during the first five minutes of operation.
(B) Because of the extremely rich needle setting used during breaking-in, you may be required to keep the glow
plug igniter attached.
(C) After consuming the first tank of fuel, allow the engine to cool. You can then re-start the engine and
gradually lean the needle setting during the next few tanks.
(D) During the third fuel tank, lean the needle valve for optimum R.P.M. using a tachometer, then enrich
mixture until a drop of 200-300 R.P.M. occurs.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS
The low speed needle valve is located inside the throttle barrel body on the right side of the carburetor when
viewed from the engine front. This needle valve controls the idle and midrange mixture of the engine.
(A) After the high-speed needle valve has been set, keep running the engine at full throttle for about 10 seconds,
then abruptly close the throttle to idle speed. Run at idle for about 5 seconds, then quickly open the
throttle.
(B) If the engine hesitates before picking up speed and abundant smoke and unburned fuel come out of the
exhaust, the low speed mixture is too rich. Screw in ( clockwise) the low speed needle about 1/8 turn at a
time until the transition from idle to high speed is satisfactory.
(C) Similarly, if the engine rapidly speeds up before quitting, the mixture is too lean. Turn the needle counter clockwise until the transition improves.
(D) If the throttle transition is difficult for you to observe, try allowing the engine to idle slightly longer before
opening the throttle. Then repeat the above procedures until you are satisfied with the transition.
98
ENGINE CARE
Always keep the outside of your engine clean. Using clean, fresh fuel can keep your fuel tank, pump, and fueling
system free from dirt particles. Install a fresh filter between the fuel tank and carburetor, and between your fuel
pump and filling line to prevent any dirt from entering your engine.
Model fuel contains alcohol, which is hydroscopic (it attracts moisture from the atmosphere). This can cause
corrosion to the internal engine parts. After each flying session, run all the fuel out from the engine and
disconnecting the fuel line from the carburetor. Put 4 or 5 drops of after-run oil (Marvel Mystery Oil, Prather,
Pacer, etc. ) into the carburetor and turn the engine over several times by hand to protect the engine bearing and
internal parts from corrosion.
The use of after-run oil is also important during periods of prolonged storage (such as winter).
We suggest removing the engine from the model, liberally applying oil into the carburetor and glow plug hole, and
wrap your engine in a soft cloth and store in a sealed plastic bag.
If you choose to store your engine on the airplane, make sure to store the model with engine down so as to keep
the bearings lubridated.
Do not dismantle your engine unnecessarily, as this may upset precision fits such as piston/cylinder and valve/
tappet assemblies. If it is necessary to completely clean your engine, remove only the carburetor (do not
disassemble), muffler and exhaust pipe. Flush the entire engine with fresh fuel and reassemble.
■Valve Clearance Adjustment
The valve clearances on your engine are factory set and will seldom require adjustment. However, after a
considerable amount of running time if you detect a power loss, or if the engine must be disassembled after a
crash, the valve clearances should be checked and adjusted. The valve adjusting kit, containing two gauges and one
wrench, are enclosed in the box.
Note:Valve clearances MUST be checked when the engine is cold.
(A) Remove the rocker arm cover.
(B) Turn the propeller until you feel compression, then turn it an additional 1/4 turn
and stop. Both valves should be closed now.
(C) The required valve clearances is .03mm-0.10mm(.0012-.004)measured between
the valve stem and rockeer arm. A.03mm shim should pass through the gap,
Clearance Gap : 0.03 ~ 0.1 mm
Rocker Arm Valve Stem
Lock Nut
Push Rod
FIG.2
Guage
0.10 mm should not. ( Refer to FIG.2)
Caution: Incorrect valve clearances can cause difficult starting, erratic operation and loss of power.
■Installation of the Camshaft
The position of the camshaft determines the timing of your engine. An improper
camshaft position will cause serious engine damage or your engine may not even start.
It is strongly suggested that you DO NOT dismantle the camshaft. If for some reasons,
you need to disassemble or change the camshaft, please follow proper procedures for
re-installing the camshaft:
(A) Turn the crankshaft to the T.D.C. ( top dead center). There is a T.D.C. mark on
drive washer, set this mark on the top position.
(B) Apply some light oil ( 3-in-1, Mystery oil. Etc. ) to the camshaft.
(C) Note that there is a mark on the side surface of the gear. When re-installing the camshaft, the mark must be
aligned with the line on the push rod cover tube ( Refer to FIG. 3.).
(D) Install the cam cover and properly secure the two screws.
(E ) Rotate the crankshaft several revolutions to insure the camshaft is properly seated,
then reassemble the remaining parts of the engine.
1110
Mark
Apply Engine Oil
( )
on the Camshaft
FIG.3
THUNDER TIGER 3 YEARS LIMITED WARRANTY
Your engine is guaranteed to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 3 years from the
date of purchase when returned for service accompanied by proof of purchase (register receipt, credit card invoice,
etc.). Crash damage or problems caused by improper use are not covered under this warranty. Damage caused by
customer disassembly, use of improper accessories ( such as propellers, glow plug, etc.) or any use of products
other than its specific intended use will automatically void this warranty.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
This 4-stroke engine was produced by Thunder Tiger Corp., a guarantee for high quality, services, and hours of
trouble-free operation.
Thunder Tiger products are sold worldwide through authorized distributors supported directly by Thunder Tiger.
To receive the latest product information and enjoy full technical support, please contact your nearest hobby shop
or Thunder Tiger authorized distributor.
TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
SYMPTOM
Engine will not start.
Engine starts but will not run.
Engine starts but slows down then stops.
Engine starts, speeds up, then stops.
Engine quits when starter battery is
removed.
CAUSE
Low votage or discharged starting battery.
Bad glow plug. Insufficient prime.
Engine flooded.
Over primed.
Incorrect glow plug.
Mixture too rich.
Mixture too lean.
Mixture too rich.
Incorrect glow plug.
Improper or bad fuel.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Replace/recharge starting battery. Install new glow plug.
Repeat priming procedure.
Disconnect battery, remove plug and rotate prop to remove excess fuel.
Disconnect battery and rotate prop several times to clear engine.
Verify plug type.
Close needle valve 1/4 turn until engine runs smoothly.
Open needle valve 1/4 turn until engine runs smoothly.