FAQ
(Facts, Recommendations, and commonly asked Questions about our engines.)
Please see our How-To Guides page for engine tuning and maintenance.
Does Desert Aircraft test run my engine?
Yes, all Desert Aircraft motors are test run prior to leaving our factory. This includes all new engines as well as engine repairs. We test run in a controlled environment and set the tune on your engine to our base tunes stated in your manual. Your particular location may require an adjustment to the tune on your engine so please see our Basic Engine tuning guide on our How To Guides page to establish the base tune. Note: this does not mean your engine is broken in, you will need to follow the break-in procedures outlined in your manual for best performance and lifespan.
Is a signature required for delivery?
Yes, all shipments valued over $300.00 require a signature at the time of delivery. Desert Aircraft primarily ships with FedEx, though we can use common carrier services upon request. If you wish to have the delivery signature waived, please contact our customer service department prior to your order.
What oil do you recommend?
Desert Aircraft highly recommends Red Line Racing oil at a 40:1 ratio. Red Line has consistently proven to operate under the most extreme demands our engines endure and leaves minimal carbon deposits without breaking down at high temperatures. If Red Line is not available in your region you can substitute in Motul 800 or Stihl HP Ultra as a good safe alternative. Avoid using oils designed for liquid cooled motorcycle engines as these can break down at the high temperatures Desert Aircraft motors are capable of reaching.
How long is your warranty on engines/ignitions?
Our warranty period is 3 years from the date of purchase for all engines and ignitions. This includes engines that change ownership. This does not cover; Shipping expenses to and from Desert Aircraft, damage caused by improper handling, operation, modifications, or maintenance, or damage caused by a crash, damage caused by using improper fuel, oil, or additives, or damage incurred during transit to Desert Aircraft.
What is your return policy?
Items can be returned in new/undamaged condition within 30 days of purchase. Again, re-pack the items carefully. After 30 days, returns will be subject to a 10% restocking fee. After 120 days, returns are subject to a 10% fee, and only a store credit can be offered. Please note; we recommend insuring any return items when you are shipping them. Desert Aircraft is not responsible for items damaged in shipping. The customer is responsible for making insurance claims with their carrier. All returns should have “Attention Returns” written somewhere on the box.
What are your business hours?
9am – 5pm Arizona time Monday – Friday (Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings Time). Desert Aircraft is closed New Years day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the day after, and Christmas day. Any and all additional closures will be listed on the home page of our website.
Where is the serial number located on my engine?
On all of our Single cylinder engines the serial # is located on the rear case directly below the cylinder head.
On all of our Twin cylinder engines the serial # is located on the rear case under the pilots view right cylinder head.
Do you give shop tours?
Yes, but by appointment only! We are more than happy to show you around our facility, but we need to make sure to schedule time for a staff member to do so. Please confirm your visit at least 1 business day in advance either through our support email or via phone call: info@desertaircraft.com 520-722-0607
Can you drill a prop/spinner backplate at your shop?
Due to liability concerns we are unable to offer to pre-drilled propellers or spinner backplates. We do, however, sell the appropriate drill jigs and drill bits to match your engine.
Do you service any other engines besides Desert Aircraft engines?
Desert Aircraft is only able to provide service and repair for genuine Desert Aircraft engines and ignition systems. We are unable to service products manufactured by other companies. Any non-Desert Aircraft products sent to us will have applicable return shipping charges that must be paid in full prior to shipping.
What is the turn around time for engine service?
The repair lead time is generally between 3 to 5 weeks at the most, with most engines taking between 5 and 7 business days once repairs have started. Engines are repaired in the order they arrive; our workload increases during the summer flying season which can increase the turnaround time. If you would like to know the current repair lead times, please send us an email or give us a call: info@desertaircraft.com 520-722-0607
How long before my web order ships?
Lead times before your web order ships is typically 1 to 3 business days (this time may increase during holiday or busy seasons). This time begins on the first business day following the day your order is placed. Desert Aircraft does not ship on Saturday or Sunday, and we are closed most holidays. In the event your order was placed during one of these days, your order will begin processing the following business day.
Engine not starting: No Spark Tips/Before you call
All testing requires a full flip (starting force) of the prop to generate spark. Rocking prop past sensor is not the proper way to test.
- Check your ignition batteries are charged and good by applying a 1 amp load to them to verify they do not sag below 4.8v; when it doubt, swap it out.
- Make sure the spark plug cap is fully seated. Never test the ignition without the ignition cap installed on the spark plug as you can cause damage to the ignition.
- Check and eliminate all kill switches including mechanical or electronic kill switches, adapters, or excess wiring. Even if you have tested the voltage readings it’s still best to eliminate these from the equation for the purpose of testing.
- If you have a 6v battery (5 cell NiCD/NiMH or 2 cell LiFE only) connect it directly to the ignition to bypass any mechanical or electronic kill switches.
- Snip connectors on battery and ignition side then wire the ignition directly, to eliminate the possibility of bad connectors.
- Inspect all wires and connectors, wiggle them, give them a tug at the connectors to see if they pull out, and check for cut wires. Folding wires over can cause breaks in the wiring, ensure wires are secured without sharp bends or folds.
- If possible test with another ignition.
- Listen to box to see if there is an arcing/high pitch noise coming from it. Also check for a burnt smell.
- Use a digital multimeter set to Ohms to check your sensor for proper continuity. Test the 2 outside wires on your sensor with your meter, it should read between 240-260 Ohms.
- Check to see if the magnet or magnets are still securely installed in the propeller hub.
Shipping Claims / Missing Items
If your item(s) arrive damaged or incomplete, we will require you to provide clear photographs of the shipping box from multiple angles, along with images of any damage to the contents. These photos should document all visible transit damage and must include at least one image with the shipping label clearly visible. All images should be submitted to info@desertaircraft.com with your name and order number included in the body of the email, as well as a brief description of the issue.
Please note that claims submitted without this documentation may be subject to denial. To ensure timely processing, all claims should be submitted to info@desertaircraft.com immediately upon receipt of your shipment.