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Model engines generate a lot of heat. The engine and silencer in particular
become very hot when running, and stay at a high temperature for quite a
while. Touching the hot parts can give you serious burns, so take care
especially when carrying out adjustments - wear protective gloves. Hot
engines can even start a fire under certain circumstances.
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When the engine is running it expels hot toxic gases from the exhaust
together with very hot fluid combustion residues which can burn you if you
are not careful.
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Remove all unused fuel from the fueltank and engine after every session.
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Every time you intend to operate your model check carefully that it and
everything attached to it (e.g. propeller, linkages, control surfaces etc.) is in
good condition and undamaged. If you find a fault, do not fly the model
until you have corrected it.
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Model engines are usually started with the help of an electric starter which
should be fitted with the appropriate adaptor where necessary. With fixed-
wing models an alternative is to use a “chicken stick” - a length of thick
wooden dowel with a piece of water hose pushed over it.
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Many model engines are very noisy, producing a sound level much higher
than 85 dB (A), which implies that you should wear ear defenders. Never
run a engine without the silencer fitted. Even with a silencer, model engines
can easily disturb your neighbours. Don’t run engines when other people
expect peace and quiet.
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If you start your engine when the model is standing on loose or sandy
ground, the propeller will suck up sand and dust and hurl it around, and it
could easily get in your eyes and do damage. Wear protective goggles at
such times.
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Take care that the sparkplug / glowplug clip and lead cannot get tangled in
the propeller or other rotating parts. Check the throttle linkage too.
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Take particular care when carrying the model with the engine running. Hold
the rotating parts well away from you!
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Be sure to keep an adequate supply of fuel in the tank. Don’t continue to fly
the model until the tank is drained dry.
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Never fly directly over people.
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Never fly directly towards people.
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Keep a safe distance from residential areas: at least 1.5 km “as the crow
flies”. The best solution is to join a model flying club and use the approved
flying site. Always keep well clear of high-tension overhead cables.
