A few days ago I found a DC Spitfire (1cc) on a junk stall. Having extracted it from a liberal coating of what appeared to be a mixture of congealed castor oil and coal dust the general condition is not too bad except for the con rod which is badly worn.

My question to the experts on small engines is what variety of aluminium do I need to make a replacement, bearing in mind that it will only be run for demonstration purposes? It's flying days (and mine) are long gone.

Thanks for the information gentlemen. I can now go shopping.

Neil, I agree bronze bushes would be good but given my somewhat agricultural skills may be a step too far. The original didn't use them (these engines were built down to a price) and given the limited running expected I think it would be simpler, while tooled up, to make a couple of spares. In the unlikely event that I ever get back on a flying field it will be my trusty ED Racer that comes out of hibernation.

Dean, Have followed your V12 build with great admiration. How about a world tour so we can see it in the flesh? I'm sure you would pull in the crowds.

Mike

Thanks again Dean. I can assure you that as soon as it's my turn to win the lottery your ticket will be on it's way.