Tech Article – How to stop a nitro engine

May 172008

There are many ways to stop a nitro engine. Here’s the pros and cons of each methods. Personally, I prefer to clog the tuned pipe, however if my engine is out of control I pinch the fuel line because is more accessible even if the body still on the vehicle. If the flywheel can be reached easily, like on my RC10GT2, I will use my shoe to block the flywheel.

I’m not a big fan of removing the air filter to block the carb intake with my finger to stop my engine because my air filter is secured to the carb with zip tie making if more difficult to remove.

Method	What’s cool	What’s NOT cool
Stop the flywheel NEVER USE YOUR FINGERS TO STOP THE FLYWHEEL	Immediately stops the engine even if the engine revs out of controlNo extra fuel inside the engine	Can be dangerous because the flywheel spins really fastFlywheel not easily accessible on all vehicles
Clog the tuned pipe’s stinger	Your engine will be primed for the next start	Can flood your engineTuned pipe may burn your fingers Will not stop the engine if the engine revs out of control
Block the carb intake	Immediately stops the engine even if the engine revs out of controlEngine stops because it lacks air, this is safe for your engine	Not easily accessibleMust remove air filter every time Can be dangerous due to the few rotating parts near the carb Dirt can enter the carb
Pinch the fuel line	If this is the last run, no fuel will remain in your engine and you can add few drops of after run oil	Will lean the engine before it stops Fuel line may be difficult to reach Will take few seconds to stop the engine if the engine revs out of control