CISON FL4-175 17.5cc Flathead Inline 4 Cylinder 4 Stroke Water Cooled Gasoline Engine Model
Hero Section: The Return of the Flathead Legend
Before overhead cams dominated the highways, the "Flathead" (Side-Valve) engine was the heartbeat of the automotive world. From the 1890s to the 1950s, these engines powered the golden age of industry. The CISON FL4-175 isn't just a miniature engine; it is a time machine. It captures the low-profile silhouette, the unique mechanical rhythm, and the raw torque of that bygone era. Whether you are building a vintage 1/8 scale crawler or simply appreciate the art of internal combustion, this 17.5cc inline-four brings the soul of a classic hot rod to your workbench.
Why Choose the CISON FL4-175?
- A Tribute to History: This engine features the classic "L-head" side-valve design. By placing the valves within the engine block rather than the head, it achieves a lower center of gravity and a compact profile—perfect for RC crawlers where stability is key.
- Torque Over Speed: Designed with a long stroke (20mm), the FL4-175 prioritizes low-end torque over high-RPM screaming. This makes it an incredible "heart" for 1/8 and 1/10 scale trucks that need power to climb, not just speed to race.
- Industrial Aesthetics: The main body is precision CNC-machined from aluminum with a sandblasted oxidation finish. It feels heavy, cold, and substantial in your hand—a true piece of mechanical art, not a toy.
- The Sound of Power: Thanks to the independent single carburetor and stainless steel exhaust, this engine produces a deep, throaty growl that is distinct from modern overhead-valve engines. It sounds like a beast waiting to be unleashed.
Technical Highlights: Engineering Excellence
- Hybrid Lubrication System: To ensure longevity, the engine uses a dual lubrication method. It features an external oil pump port for crankshaft supplementation (splash lubrication) and requires mixed fuel for upper-cylinder protection.
- Water-Cooled Endurance: Unlike air-cooled models that overheat quickly, the FL4-175 features a fully functional water-cooling cycle. This allows for longer run times and stable performance under load.
- Bi-Metal Durability: The piston rings are made of cast iron, paired with a high-performance hardened cylinder liner. This bi-metal construction ensures excellent compression sealing and wear resistance.
- Reliable Ignition: Equipped with a self-developed, compact 4-cylinder CDI electronic ignition system, the engine offers strong anti-interference properties, ensuring stable idling and smooth throttle response compatible with RC electronics.
Specifications
- Brand: CISON
- Model: FL4-175
- Type: Flathead (Side-Valve) Inline 4-Cylinder
- Displacement: 17.5cc
- Bore: 16.7mm
- Stroke: 20.0mm
- RPM Range: 1600-9000 RPM
- Power: 2.5 PS
- Cooling: Water-Cooled
- Ignition: CDI Electronic Ignition (Included)
- Fuel: Gasoline (Mixed with Oil)
- Dimensions: 13.5 x 4.3 x 9 cm
- Weight: 1500g
- Power Source: 6-12V (2S-3S LiPo recommended for ignition)
Usage Scenario: The Ultimate Upgrade
Imagine the scene: You have a 1/8 scale vintage pickup truck on your workbench. You remove the standard electric motor and drop in the CISON FL4-175. The low profile fits perfectly under the hood. You fill the tank, prime the carb, and hit the starter. The engine catches with a rhythmic chug-chug-chug idle. As you gently pull the throttle, the truck crawls over obstacles with the realistic sound and smell of a real gasoline engine. It transforms your RC experience from "playing" to "operating."
Important Tips from the Workshop
- Lubrication is Critical: This engine requires a specific lubrication approach. You must add a small amount of oil to the crankcase for the bottom end and mix castor oil into your gasoline for the top end. Failure to do both can result in seizure.
- What You Need: Please note that this package includes the engine kit. To run it, you will need to separately purchase spark plugs, a battery (2S-3S LiPo), a fuel tank, and water cooling accessories (radiator/pump).
- Break-in Period: Like a real car, this engine needs a break-in period. Run it rich at lower RPMs for the first few tanks to allow the piston rings to seat properly against the liner.
- Customization Potential: The oil pan features a port that can be modified for a transparent window (DIY), allowing you to watch the crankshaft spin in real-time.
Customer Support
We are fellow engine enthusiasts. If you need help with tuning, installation advice, or sourcing the correct accessories, please contact our support team at service@helloworld7.com.