Align Regulator blowing plugs?

[t-rex pedro]

Hi all

I have 2 600n's both fitted with Align regs. One heli is fitted with the older version reg and blows plugs at an alarming rate (sometimes twice a session).

I know this could be due to a lean engine, but I recently switched my OS for a Redline which is running rich for break in and the plug still blew when I went to start it for another flight.

Could the reg be putting too much power to the plug once I push the button and killing it? Kinda like a surge or something?

Just for info my other 600 with the newer reg is fine.

Cheers

[richieclarkie]

Have you put a meter on the output to the plug? Should be around 1.2v.

[t-rex pedro]

Have you put a meter on the output to the plug? Should be around 1.2v.

Hi Richie

No, not put a meter on it mainly cos I dont have one!! Have you ever heard of this problem before? I may get a new one anyway as the older version is more vunerable than the newer version.

[richieclarkie]

I haven't heard of the problem but it's worth checking (you could always pop down to me). I would have though it's unlikely it's the reg as it shouldn't be passing current to the glow plug most of the time anyway.

Are you still doing plugs within a gallon.

[t-rex pedro]

Yeah, still within a gallon but only with this particular regulator. I would understand if I was a bit lean but the new engine is only warm to the touch on the backplate and it still blew the plug. It runs fine, I refill the tank, turn on the reg, push the button and nothing. On inspecting the plug the coil is usually burnt out.

Might just change the reg and stop turning that main needle in to chase the power!!

Thanks for the replies guys.

[steelie600]

if yer blowing plugs its usually a sign of knackered bearings but if its doing it on a new redline that rules that out. I use align regs and i will admit my tt plug that came with my 2nd redline only lasted one flight, and since then its had an os#8 in there and hasnt blown since (3 galls). Like richie sez just check voltage out put should be no more than 2v at itsmax recommended is 1.5v much more than 2v and id just get the v2 reg to be on safe side

[moyesboy]

Two ways to find out:
Swap the regs between helis and see if the blown plugs follow it.
Use a normal glow stick to start the suspect one.

I have two of the new style 2 in 1 regs and the plugs last very well - probsbly averageing 3 gallons though its hard to guess becuase changing a plug is quite rare - once every 3 or 4 flying sessions.

I did notice that the 2 in 1 does light the plug brighter than my old glow stick.

[ChrisB]

Pete

Try disconnecting the Regs supply to the glow and use a normal glowstick for a while and see if the plugs last.