Diesel mix for model aeroplane engine

[Plug65]

I posted the following on the General Gassing section and was helped and directed to this section.

I have an old 1.5cc Elfin diesel model aeroplane engine that I would like to get going again. I recall that the required components for the fuel mixture were Caster oil, Paraffin and Ether. I have lost the notes that reminded me of the proportions of each component.
Can anyone help with the proportions or suggest an alternative fuel mixture?
Also, is Ether still available and where from?

Plug65

PS.It was suggested (in GG section) equal parts of each component. Everyone happy?

[ferlin]

You need to try to obtain some model technics D1000 or D2000 fuel rather than trying to mix it yourself. You will find Isopropyl Nitrate hard to obtain as it is an explosive.

http://www.modeltechnics.com/diesel.htm

Try your local model shops for this fuel as you will not find anyone that will send it to you due to transportation regulations

[tr7v8]

You only need AN for performance. Generally a 1/3rd each mix is all you need for non-racing diesels. Little ones (smaller than 1.5cc) will need uprated ether content especially in winter!
Get decent castor though ideally degummed stuff such as Castrol R.
Looks like Millers sell it as well.
Bit here http://www.modeltechnics.com/diesel.htm

Bit ore here http://www.modeltechnics.com/materials.htm

[Elderly]

O.T. and not helpful I know ..... but just remebembering those wonderful smells of model diesel fuel, balsa cement and cellulose dope!!!!

I still have a 5cc Water Cooled 'Miles Special' installed in a Patrol Boat somewhere in my loft.

[Plug65]

Thanks for all that info, I will follow up your leads. Who knows, I might be able to bring back all those old memories AND smells!!!

Cheers
Plug65

[nala]

I remembered the diesel fuel recipe was listed in the instructions to the Allbon Spitfire diesel I bought years ago. Sure enough, in the shed, under the bench.

Ether.......................30%
Paraffin or Diesel Oil......45%
Mineral or Castor Oil......22.5%
Amyl Nitrite or Nitrate.....2.5% (neither are essential but both improve performance)

For best results filter home-made fuel before use.

The Diesel oil option was a bit of a surprise, but that's what it says.
Hope this helps,

Alan

[tr7v8]

Elderly said:

O.T. and not helpful I know ..... but just remebembering those wonderful smells of model diesel fuel, balsa cement and cellulose dope!!!!

I still have a 5cc Water Cooled 'Miles Special' installed in a Patrol Boat somewhere in my loft.

I've a couple of PAWs floating around here & an ED Bee modded to glow. I love little engines, but you're right small diesels are great as is the smell....
I really must get the model stuff out again, yet another year when I've paid my flying club subs & BMFA & not flown at all!