GLOW ENGINED R/C CAR

GLOW ENGINED R/C CAR
Tamiya's glow engine powered radio control models allow you to enjoy the fascination of internal combustion powerplant operation at work. Maximum performance is ensured by using high quality, reliable glow engine components. Add these to the superbly designed chassis and suspension, and you have Tamiya’s new dimension in glow engine enjoyment.
*NOTE: This is a scale model using an internal combustion engine, and is suitable for modelers 14 years of age and older. It is not a toy.

1. RADIO CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR ENGINED CARS
A 2-channel 2-servo radio system with a receiver battery case, is standard. One servo controls steering, while the other controls throttle and braking. Refer to the safety instructions included with the radio for proper use.



ITEMS REQUIRED FOR STARTING ENGINE
In addition to glow fuel, several other items are required for starting a glow engine. A fuel filler, battery for glow plug and a cable/clip to connect the battery to the glow plug.



2. ABOUT GLOW ENGINES
Two-stroke glow engines are known for their simple and reliable mechanics. Fuel and air is
mixed in carburetor, drawn into the cylinder, compressed and ignited by the glow plug. The explosion (combustion) translated into workable power via the crankshaft. The correct ratio of fuel/air mixture is essential to keep the engine running properly.

GLOW ENGINE COMPONENTS



ABOUT ENGINE COMPONENTS
*CARBURETOR
The carburetor is the engine component that mixes the fuel and air to the proper ratio and atomizes it. The throttle adjusts the amount of fuel/air mixture available to the cylinder. An open throttle allows more intake of the mixture, resulting in increased engine RPM and a higher running speed.



*GLOW PLUG
The heated glow plug filament ignites the compressed air/fuel mixture in the cylinder, producing combustion, which forces down the piston. This rotates the crankshaft, and the cycle is repeated. The glow plug, once heated, is kept hot by the repeated combustion cycle.



*RECOIL STARTER
The recoil zip starter is a manual method of starting a glow engine by pulling the rope handle in quick succession, forcing the crankshaft to rapidly rotate. The rope automatically rewinds by the recoil spring in the casing. An electric starter is also offered with some models that use an electric motor for engine start.



*CENTRIFUGAL CLUTCH
A centrifugal clutch remains disengaged until the engine reaches a specified RPM. This g keeps the car from jumping out when the engine is first started, and at idle. When the proper RPM is reached (by advancing the throttle), the clutch engages and power is transmitted to the transmission.



3. BRAKE UNIT
Most full sized automobiles use the disc idle has stabilized, remove glow plug brake system, and it is also used on Ft/C glow cable/clip and return throttle trim to its engined models to reduce speed; however, the model car system is synchronized with throttle servo movement. The brake is activated when engine power is reduced by moving the transmitter control stick back, or the trigger forward.



4. GLOW ENGINE FUEL
Use only the specified glow engine fuel for your R/C model. Glow fuels contain Methanol and Nitro Methane for combustion, plus lubricant for engine protection.
*A higher ratio of Nitro Methane can produce higher power output, but will result in engine starting difficulties.



5. ENGINE STARTING PROCEDURE
The standard procedure for starting glow engines is described below. Always refer to the
instructions included with your engine and/or model for correct procedure.



6. STOPPING ENGINE
Engine can be stopped by removing the air cleaner and closing off air intake or blocking exhaust; however, fuel remaining in engine tank could damage internal components. It is therefore recommended that the engine be run at idle until it runs out of fuel.

7.UNING TIPS FOR GLOW ENGINED R/C CARS
Adjustment of chassis components, such as suspension etc. are common with electric and glow engine powered cars. Several points unique to glow engined R/C cars are discussed below.
IMPROVING RELIABILITY AND ENDURANCE
Overheating is often a problem with glow engines. To reduce this, cut air intake openings in the body shell to help cool the engine. Replace the engine's heat sink with a larger or more efficient one. Sand and/or debris in the fuel can damage internal engine parts. Install a fuel filter to prevent this.

FOR QUICKER ENGINE RESPONSE
Glow engines produce usable torque after sufficient RPM is reached (ie. low torque at low RPM). By using a lighter weight flywheel, the time required to reach high RPM is shortened. This provides quicker throttle response, improving acceleration. Make sure to adjust the engine’s needle valve and idle setting after replacing a flywheel.

BETTER BRAKING
Just like full sized vehicies, a glow engine car is equipped with a braking system. Brakes are used often during running and wear following prolonged use. Replace worn parts when required. Larger diameter brake disks, or ones of composite material are available for some cars, which provide better braking.

OBTAINING A HIGHER ENGINE OUTPUT
it is not recommended to modify the engine’s cylinder or piston, as this requires a high degree of knowledge, experience and facilities. An easier way to obtain more power is to use a glow fuel of higher specifications. Race oriented fuels include a higher Nitro Methane content and are on the market. However, always refer to your engine's instructions and use its recommended fuel.

TO AVOID RUNNING OUT OF FUEL
Even though refueling is not difficult, sudden stops clue to fuel starvation should be avoided. To aid in this, a fuel level indicator is available from Tamiya for their glow engined Ft/C cars. A sensor monitors fuel level in the tank, and when low, a light emitting diode glows alerting time to refuel.

8. MAINTENANCE
Glow engined cars get soiled from oil residue after running, due to the lubricants used in the fuel. Daily clean-up and maintenance is essential for optimum performance.

CLEANING CHASSlS
To remove the oily residue from chassis components, an alcoholic cleaning spray is recommended. Several types are available from hobby shops; however, use only the cleaner developed for model use as other types could attack the plastic and rubber components.

ENGINE MAINTENANCE
The engine's internal components are exposed to high heat, pressure and exhaust gases during operation. If left uncleaned, the oily grime can cause rust and corrosion inside the engine. Use an oil spray for cleaning. Remove the glow plug and spray directly into the cylinder and carburetor after running.
*Vehicle components such as engine, muffler, exhaust pipe etc. get very hot during use and can cause burns if touched. Allow to cool before cleaning and maintenance.

CHECKING GLOW PLUG
The glow plug is also subject to high temperatures and pressure. Periodically check and replace when necessary. To check the plug, remove it from the engine and connect it to the battery with the cable/clip. The filament should glow a bright red if good.

AIR FILTER
A clogged air filter hinders the supply of air to the engine, resulting in lowered performance. Periodically check and replace the air filter element when necessary.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
To avoid serious personal injury and/or property damage, operate all remotely controlled models in a responsible manner as out-lined below. Be aware of your surroundings when operating any model.

Never run models near people or animals, nor use people or animals as obstacles when operating vehicles.

Never run Fl/C models on the street or highway, as it could cause or contribute to serious traffic accidents.

To avoid injury to persons or animals, and damage to property, never run R/C models in a confined or crowded area.

Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid running models in environment where noise can cause displeasure.

Never run models near heat and open flame as it can cause serious accidents.

Running models into furniture or other inanimate objects will cause damage to the objects and the model.

Make sure that no one else is using the same frequency as yours in your operating area. Using the same frequency at the same time, whether it is driving, flying, or sailing, can cause loss of control of the models, resulting in serious accidents.
*Use only glow fuel. Never use gasoline or other fuel as it can explode and burn, causing serious personal injury and/or accidents. Read the warning on product prior to use. Improper use of glow fuel could result in serious injury and/or property damage. You are solely responsible for the safe use of the product.

HEAT, FIRE AND FUEL SAFETY
*Vehicle components such as engine, muffler, etc., get very hot during running and can cause burns it touched.

*Do not touch any of the moving parts, such as drive shafts, wheels, gears, etc. as these rotating parts can cause serious injury.

*Use only glow engine fuel. Never use gasoline or other fuels as they can explode and burn, causing serious personal injury and/or property damage. Use fuel only in a well ventilated area. Keep away from heat and flame. Never fuel or prime with battery connected to engine. Glow fuels are poisonous. Avoid contact with eyes and skin. Keep away from children.

AVOIDING LOSS OF CONTROL
Top speeds of glow engined cars exceed 50km/h and can be very dangerous if control is lost. Tamiya’s Fail-Safe Unit (Item No.45017) can help prevent control loss. The central processing unit of this system is programmed to continuously monitor pulse signals from the receiver. When radio interference or noise is detected, or the receiver battery voltage becomes insufficient, the unit automatically returns the servos to their neutral position,
preventing loss of control.

http://www.rcecho.com/GLOW-ENGINED-R-C-CAR.html