Wankel rotary engine

[Kez]

As far as I know, OS is the only model engine manufacturer who makes a production Wankel engine. I am wondering why they aren't used in model boats and no other manufacturer has entered this market. I can see lots of advantages over piston power. No reciprocating mass to cause vibration, no con-rod to break etc.

Regards,

Kez

 

[Ian Inverarity]

Kez,

I have seen the OS rotary in a boat. Sounded like an RX7! B) But it wasnt very quick. I dont think the OS motor is a highly developed one.

Ian.

 

[TimD]

The OS wankel gets very very hot - even with an air prop in front of it to cool it down. Water cooling one would be very difficult due to the shape of the casing.

It is a peripheral ported single rotor engine. Mazda rotaries fitted to road going cars such as the RX7's are side ported twin rotor or triple rotors.

Cheers,

Tim.

 

[Lake S.P.O.R.T.]

I thought the same thing when I first saw the OS engine....hmmm...put this on a lawless leg! Johnson and Evinrude built a four rotor racing outboard back in 1973 that was rumored to put out over 300 h.p. They were kicking Mercurys butt when they did not break down. Was always unreliable because the apex seals kept failing. Since the OS has no head someone would have to figure a way to cool it, maybe fin it. Also, I believe that it is a 5 cc engine so it would have to run in the 40 class if it were raced.

Mark