HP1 T15 engine replacement

[dal]

Hi Friends
I have just got a used HP1 MT2 truck with a T-15 engine. It ran well on normal fuel [80% methanol and 20% castor, without nitro-methane]. After a while, it was difficult to start. I had a blown plug [OS #8]. Switching to an OS #3 plug, the engine refused to kick. Then I switched to an unknown brand, the engine started but no amount of tuning will rev it up. The mixture remained rich. Moments later, the engine stopped suddenly, what sounded like a 'clunk'. On stripping the engine down, I found a damaged con-rod. In another forum, reports are that the T-15 engine has poor metallurgy properties in the con-rod, which damages easily. Has anyone a similar experience with damaged T-15 engine? This engine can be bought new at US$ 65 complete with pull starter from the US.

I am thinking of replacing it with an OS 18 CV-RX. Is this easily done? Do I need anything else other than the mounting blocks? I am looking forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards
Dal

[Mad Armour]

Hi Friends
I have just got a used HP1 MT2 truck with a T-15 engine. It ran well on normal fuel [80% methanol and 20% castor, without nitro-methane]. After a while, it was difficult to start. I had a blown plug [OS #8]. Switching to an OS #3 plug, the engine refused to kick. Then I switched to an unknown brand, the engine started but no amount of tuning will rev it up. The mixture remained rich. Moments later, the engine stopped suddenly, what sounded like a 'clunk'. On stripping the engine down, I found a damaged con-rod. In another forum, reports are that the T-15 engine has poor metallurgy properties in the con-rod, which damages easily. Has anyone a similar experience with damaged T-15 engine? This engine can be bought new at US$ 65 complete with pull starter from the US.

I am thinking of replacing it with an OS 18 CV-RX. Is this easily done? Do I need anything else other than the mounting blocks? I am looking forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards
Dal

I always thought the proper fuel to run these engines is nitro?

As for the OS 18 CV-RX, as long as it fits your engine mount, it should fit. Just get the correct type of shaft.

[dal]

I took the damaged HPI T-15 engine apart. Had to bake it in the oven for 180 deg C before I could remove the cylinder lining. My assessment of the engine failure is caused by a very worn engine. With this experience, I will no longer buy another used car / engine unless I know the owner very well. I have since installed a new OS 18 CVR and the car runs well now.