Engine recommendation discussion for RC8

[Amoeba]

As I mentioned in my Members Projects RC8 build thread, I've got a new RC8 with factory kit I just put together. Right now I've got a HPI 4.6 Savage engine in it while I dial-in the linkages/brake bias etc. and figure out what diff setup suits me and get an overall feel for the handling of my first 1/8 buggy. I plan on racing this coming season and, as a n00b racer, am looking for some engine recommendations for the RC8 from you more experienced racers out there.

My preferences are for something very forgiving and easy to tune. I'm assuming a high-end race mill probably wouldn't be the best choice since I won't yet have the skills to get the most out of it. I like OS engines and have considered picking up a 3-port VG for the short term and maybe sinking the cash in for a V-Spec later on but am seeking alternative suggestions. While Novarossi or Picco's look nice, I don't like the idea of waiting on parts from Italy. So, something with a solid low-mid range and decent top-end (I expect I'll spend a lot of time at lower speeds adjusting for driving mistakes so top-end not as important *grin*) and is stupid easy to tune & tough as nails is what I'm looking for. Bonus points if it matches up well with Jammin pipes since I already have a JP-3 and JP-2 sitting on my shelf NIB.

Suggestions?

 

[Lessen]

I've only run like 5 tanks through mine but break-in has been an absolute pleasure after I got her started. It idled through the first tank with absolutely no sign of stuttering stalling or change in tune. It's only a 3 port so it's not going to be insanely fast, but it's a quality mill no doubt and shoulds upply ample low end with your JP-3. I was so impressed with the consistancy of break-in that I went to RB engines in all of my nitro racers. I have an ST28 in my Tmaxx and I jus scored a great deal on a dated but new C12 for my GT2.

This is the S3 L2G. Basically, the sport model. As you move up the ladder you get more ports, power and rpms probably as well. This should be a good engine for you as well since it sounds like your somewhat of a beginner racer like me, and it won't bust the budget either. I'm running a JP-1 on mine.

http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_info.php/products_id/23736

 

[Amoeba]

I've only run like 5 tanks through mine but break-in has been an absolute pleasure after I got her started. It idled through the first tank with absolutely no sign of stuttering stalling or change in tune. It's only a 3 port so it's not going to be insanely fast, but it's a quality mill no doubt and shoulds upply ample low end with your JP-3. I was so impressed with the consistancy of break-in that I went to RB engines in all of my nitro racers. I have an ST28 in my Tmaxx and I jus scored a great deal on a dated but new C12 for my GT2.

This is the S3 L2G. Basically, the sport model. As you move up the ladder you get more ports, power and rpms probably as well. This should be a good engine for you as well since it sounds like your somewhat of a beginner racer like me, and it won't bust the budget either. I'm running a JP-1 on mine.

http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_info.php/products_id/23736

Hrm. I've seen the RB's around but never looked into them. I'll have to see if my LHS can support it. I know they do OS, SH, and basically anything Great Plains/Tower handles.

Should I look into turbo-plug engines? I've read that they tend to be more efficient fuel-wise.

 

[Lessen]

I honestly don't know anything about Turbo plugs and their pro's/con's. Something to look into though I suppose.

 

[sweetdiesel]

I'll second Lessen's recommendation for an RB mill. I've owned a couple and they were all very easy to tune and ran consistently. The only issue I had was breaking them in, but once you get past that they were a breeze to run.

Novarossi and Picco have distributors in the US, check out www.nitrohouse.com and amainhobbies for support.

 

[Scrogg]

Trinity X-Tech .21, best 200 dollar engine out there. They hold their tune beautifully and are easy to tune. They'll go 10 minutes on one tank of fuel, very few engines can do that.
Those 3 port VGs are not very reliable and tend to run on the hot side.

 

[RhipKord]

Dont know if i really have the experience to suggest any nitro engine of any type, But what i do is that my little 5 port GO .21 and tuned pipe combo is a screamer. Awesome low end and it aint to shabby when it starts to stretch it legs either.

Rhip

 

[Scrogg]

If you get a good one the Go-Tech's will hold their own. Excellent intermediate mills.
I speak from years of buying budget nitro engines.....once you experience a high grade race mill there is no turning back. They last twice as long, run cooler, easier to tune, use less fuel, less chance of getting a turd right out of the box....I can keep going, in the end the few bucks you saved on the budget engine you'll end spending on excess fuel consumption and maintenance issues.
There is only one low price mill I will recommend and that is the Picco .21 BAS, this 110 dollar engine runs with the big boys and has been very reliable. I am only giving up a little top end to the high end engines, but most of my racing is medium to short tracks.
I rarely get past 1/2 throttle.