Model Engine Safety Guidelines

Read and follow these safety instructions and warnings before attempting to operate a model engine! Do not let pleasure turn into injury or tragedy! You alone are responsible for the safe operation of your engine, so act sensibly and with care at all times. These engines are not toys, but are precision built machines whose power is capable of harming you and others if abused, misused, or if you fail to observe these safety guidelines.

  1. Keep spectators, especially small children, who can be hurt when the engine is running, at least 20 feet away.
  2. Mount engine properly and securely in a test stand, or on proper engine mount. Follow the mounting recommendations on the airplane kit's plan or in the test stand manufacturer's instructions. DO NOT clamp the engine in a vise.
  3. Use the correct size and pitch of propeller for your engine. See the Propeller Specification Chart in these instructions, consult your model's plans, and always follow the instructions of the propeller manufacturer. Note: We recommend using wooden propellers when possible. Nylon and other non-wooden propeller require special care and handling.
  4. Install the propeller with the curved side facing toward you. Tighten the propeller nut securely against the washer and the propeller. Use a propeller wrench to tighten or loosen the nut. Do not use pliers.
  5. Inspect your propeller regularly. If propeller has any nicks, scratches, cracks or any other sign of wear, discard it! Never alter, repair, bend or shave a propeller, as this will weaken it.
  6. Inspect the propeller nut between each run and tighten if necessary. Normal engine vibration can cause loosening.
  7. To stop engine, adjust throttle linkage to close and cut off air supply. Alternative method: cut off fuel supply by pinching the fuel line or disconnecting the fuel line from the carburetor. NEVER use hands, fingers or any part of your body to stop the propeller. NEVER throw anything into a running engine to stop it.
  8. Stand behind engine while performing any adjustments. Keep your face, body, and any objects away from the path of the propeller while starting and running your engine.
  9. Never lean your face over the engine while you are starting or running engine.
  10. If you carry your model while engine is running, be very cautious. Keep your eye of the propeller and keep it away from you and others.
  11. Do not have tight fitting cowlings or oversized spinners, as they will impede airflow to engine, causing overeating and damage to the engine.
  12. Do not fly your model under or near high tension electrical wires.
  13. Use safety glasses or a safety shield when starting or running your engine.
  14. Follow all warnings regarding engine fuel. Keep it in a safe place, away from the danger of sparks, cigarettes, excessive heat, and anything which could ignite the fuel. Engine fuel is extremely flammable and must be handled with great care.
  15. Do not run engine in an area containing loose gravel or sand, as these may be thrown in your face, and may also weaken the propeller, causing failure.
  16. If using spinner of any kind, ensure that its edges do not come in contact with the propeller blades.
  17. Do not allow loose clothing (shirts, ties, etc.) to come near the propeller. Keep loose objects (pencils, screwdrivers) out of pockets to prevent them from falling into propeller.
  18. Keep glow plug clip and its cord away from spinning propeller.
  19. Model engines create considerable heat as they run. Do not touch any part of your engine until it has cooled.
  20. Never run engine in enclosed area (garage, basement, etc.). Model engines, like automobile engines, emit deadly carbon monoxide gas. Run your engine only in a well ventilated open area.
  21. Operating any model with your engine requires skill and safety precautions. A flying model can develop a great deal of power, enough to seriously injure people and do substantial property damage. KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING — get proper training from an experienced modeler before operating your model!

You and you alone are responsible for the safe operation of your engine. Use good safety sense at all times. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact your dealer or the service center for your engine.

This FAQ sheet was provided by Magnum Engines.

Frequently Asked Questions