Thank you for choosing a Magnum XLS series aircraft engine. The XLS 

.61A is a single cylinder, two-cycle engine incorporating ABC (Aluminum 

piston, Chrome plated Brass sleeve) technology for long life, high power 

output and easy break-in. A dual needle valve carburetor with a remote 

high speed needle valve for precise fuel/airflow metering is standard. The 

XLS .61A also features a dual ball bearing-supported crankshaft, a dual 

bushing-supported connecting rod and a high-flow, noise-reducing muffler. 

Your Magnum XLS series engine was designed by expert engineers and 

built by master craftsmen using only the highest quality materials and CNC 

machinery. These qualities provide the long life and dependability you have 

come to expect from an engine of this caliber.

● Keep spectators, especially small children, at least 20 feet away from the 

engine while it is running. 

● Mount the engine securely in the airplane or on a suitable engine test stand 

to run the engine. Follow the mounting instructions in your kit's instruction 

manual or on the plans for individual mounting recommendations. Do not 

clamp the engine in a vise to test-run it. 

● Use the recommended size propeller and follow the proper procedure for 

mounting the propeller. Use the correct size wrench to tighten the propeller 

nut. Do not use pliers.

● Inspect the spinner, propeller, and propeller nut on a regular basis, looking 

for any signs of nicks, cracks or loosening.

● To stop the engine, adjust the throttle linkage to completely close the throttle 

barrel and therefore cut off the fuel/air supply. You can also pinch the fuel 

line to stop the engine, but only if it is accessible. Do not throw anything into 

the spinning propeller or attempt to use your hands to stop the engine.

● While the engine is running, stand behind the engine to make any adjustments 

to the needle valves. Do not reach over or around the propeller. Do not 

lean toward the engine. Do not wear loose clothing or allow anything to be 

drawn into the spinning propeller while the engine is running.

● If you need to carry your model while the engine is running, be conscious 

of the spinning propeller. Keep the airplane pointed away from you and 

others at all times.

● Do not use a tight-fitting cowling over the engine. It can restrict air from 

flowing over the engine, which could result in engine damage from overheating. 

For proper cooling, the total cowling air-exit area should be 30% greater than 

the total air-intake area.

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Displacement................................................................ 9.94cc (0.607ci)

Bore .............................................................................. 24mm

Stroke ........................................................................... 22mm

Practical RPM.....................................................................2,000 - 16,000rpm

Weight w/Muffler........................................................... 22.5oz

l ABC Piston and Sleeve

l Dual Ball Bearing-Supported Crankshaft

l Dual Bushing-Supported Connecting Rod

l Lightweight, High Power Output

l Rear Needle Valve Assembly for Safe Tuning

Engine Orientation

Your XLS series engine can be oriented in any position on the firewall. Keep 

in mind that when the engine is mounted inverted, carburetor adjustments 

will need to be made differently and the fuel tank may need to be lowered. 

(See fuel tank size and orientation to carburetor on the next page.)

Engine Bolts and Firewall Requirements

The engine should be mounted to either a glass-filled nylon engine mount, a 

machined aluminum engine mount or an integrated hardwood beam mount. 

Use only high-quality 5/32" (4mm) steel cap screws and related hardware to 

mount the engine to the engine mount. The firewall in the airplane should be 

aircraft grade plywood no less than 1/4" (6mm) thick and the firewall should 

be reinforced to meet the torque and weight of the engine.

SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

INTRODUCTION

BECOMING FAMILIAR WITH YOUR ENGINE

If you are familiar with the operation of model engines or just can't wait to 

run your new engine, please read through the included Quick Start Guide. 

This guide will help you get started right away and also includes some 

good recommendations. We do recommend reading through these operating 

instructions in their entirety to familiarize yourself with the features and 

operation of your new engine. We have also included a Troubleshooting 

Guide should you encounter any problems.

ENGINE INSTALLATION

XLS .61A

Rear Needle Valve

Aircraft Engine

P/N 210770

Muffler

Muffler Cone

Cylinder Head

Carburetor

Assembly

Crankshaft

Propeller Nut

and Washer

Drive Washer

Crankcase

Fuel Nipple

Idle Stop 

Screw

Throttle Arm

Detent Spring

High Speed

Needle Valve

Low Speed

Needle Valve

Due to running manufacturing changes 

and improvements, your engine may 

differ slightly from that shown.

Fuel Nipple

Needle Valve Plug

CAUTIONS AND WARNINGS

Magnum XLS series model airplane engines will consistently give you 

dependable performance and reliability and will be a source of satisfaction 

and pleasure if you follow these instructions as to the engine’s proper and 

safe use. You alone are responsible for the safe operation of your engine, 

so act sensibly and with care at all times. This Magnum XLS series model 

airplane engine is not a toy. It is a precision-built machine whose power is 

capable of causing serious injury to yourself and others if abused or misused, 

or if you fail to observe proper safety precautions while using it.

CAUTIONS AND WARNINGS, CONTINUED....

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http://Magnum.GlobalHobby.com

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2

Using a 5/16" (8mm) drill bit or a propeller reamer, enlarge the hole in the 

propeller hub to fit the crankshaft. 

The diameter of the crankshaft is 

5/16" (8mm). Slide the propeller 

onto the crankshaft, up against 

the drive washer, then slide the 

propeller washer up against the 

propeller and thread the propeller nut into place. Tighten the 

propeller nut firmly to secure the 

propeller into place. When tightening the nut, use an adjustable wrench. 

Do not use pliers.

WARNING If you are installing a spinner onto your engine, the spinner 

cone must not rub against the propeller. Allowing the spinner cone to 

rub against the propeller could lead to propeller damage and eventual 

propeller failure.

NOTE: PROPELLER SHAFT THREAD SIZE IS 5/16-24.

Fuel Tank Size and Orientation to Carburetor

Ideally, the stopper in the fuel tank should be level with the high speed needle 

valve or just slightly below it. Some models will only allow the fuel tank to be 

mounted higher than the ideal location. A fuel tank that is positioned higher 

than the ideal location usually doesn’t pose any problem except when it is 

mounted excessively higher and/or is used in conjunction with an inverted 

mounted engine or during extreme aerobatic flight. If you mount the engine 

inverted, we strongly suggest lowering the fuel tank so the stopper assembly 

is slightly below the high speed needle valve. Doing this will prevent fuel 

from siphoning into the engine and flooding it when the fuel tank is full. If 

you cannot lower the fuel tank far enough, we suggest lowering it as far as 

can be allowed in your particular application.

The size of the fuel tank used should be 10oz. - 14oz., depending on the 

model and the length of flights desired. Use of a 14oz. tank will provide 

approximately 15 minutes of run time at full throttle. Use of a fuel tank any 

larger than 14oz. can lead to excessive leaning of the engine during flight 

and is not recommended.

Carburetor Installation

Slide the base of the carburetor into the crankcase, being careful to line 

up the mounting holes in the 

carburetor with the holes in the 

crankcase. Push down firmly on 

the carburetor so that the base 

of the carburetor sets completely 

into the crankcase. An o-ring is 

installed on the carburetor throat 

to seal the joint. While holding 

the carburetor down firmly, install and gently tighten the two socket-cap 

screws (A) to hold the carburetor securely in place.

Muffler Installation

The muffler is mounted to the engine using the two long socket-cap screws, 

two split washers and one of the 

two gaskets provided. The second 

gasket should be kept as a spare. 

Tighten both screws firmly to 

prevent the muffler from loosening 

during flight. The exhaust cone 

on the back of the muffler can 

be adjusted to better match the 

installation of your particular application. To adjust the exhaust cone, loosen 

the retaining nut (A), rotate the exhaust cone to the desired angle, then 

tighten the retaining nut firmly while holding the axial bolt (B) in place from 

the front of the muffler. It is important to tighten the retaining nut firmly 

to prevent the exhaust cone from loosening during flight.

Adjusting the Idle Speed (Idle Stop Screw)

The idle stop screw adjusts the closure of the carburetor barrel. The idle stop 

screw (A) should be adjusted 

so that the carburetor barrel is 

allowed to close completely, so 

that the engine can be shut off 

using your transmitter. To adjust 

the idle stop screw, first loosen 

the hex nut, then turn the idle 

stop screw clockwise to make the 

carburetor barrel stay open more or turn the idle stop screw counterclockwise 

to make the carburetor barrel close more. When satisfied with the setting, 

tighten the hex nut firmly to lock the idle stop screw in place.

Needle Valve Extension

If an extension is required to adjust the high speed needle valve, use a 

1.5mm diameter wire of the necessary length (not included). Loosen the 

grub screw in the side of the needle valve using a 1.5mm hex wrench, insert 

the wire into the end of the needle valve, then tighten the grub screw firmly. 

If the extension is more than a few inches long we recommend supporting 

the outer end of the extension to prevent excessive vibration.

Adjusting the Throttle Arm Position

The throttle arm angle can be adjusted to better suit your particular 

application. Loosen the throttle arm retaining nut with an adjustable wrench, 

adjust the angle of the throttle arm either forward or backward, then firmly 

tighten the retaining nut.

Propeller Installation

WARNING Before installing the propeller it must be balanced. Running 

your engine using an out-of-balance propeller can lead to excessive 

vibration, which will result in excessive stress and wear on both the engine 

and the airframe. Balance the propeller using the method recommended 

by the propeller manufacturer. Several products are available to properly 

balance propellers. Ask your local retailer for more information about 

these items.

Optional Standard Needle Valve Installation

It is not necessary to use the rear-mounted needle valve assembly with 

your engine. You can mount the 

needle valve into the side of the 

carburetor if you wish.

Using an adjustable wrench, 

carefully loosen and remove the 

plug from the side of the carburetor. 

Carefully loosen and remove the 

needle valve assembly (including 

the clear gaskets) from the rear needle valve mount. Carefully thread the 

needle valve assembly (with the clear gaskets in place) into the side of the 

carburetor and tighten it securely using an adjustable wrench.

Rear Needle Valve Assembly Installation

Mount the rear needle valve assembly to the back of the engine, using the 

two longer socket-cap screws 

and split washers (A) packaged 

with the rear needle valve 

assembly, then install the length 

of silicon fuel line (B) between the 

rear needle valve assembly and 

the carburetor. The fuel pick-up 

line from your fuel tank will connect to the larger brass nipple on the rear 

needle valve assembly.

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Your XLS series engine can be started using an electric starter or it can 

be started by hand. For safety and ease of starting, especially when the 

engine is new, we recommend using an electric starter. The following two 

procedures should be done with the power to the glow plug off.

WARNING ABOUT ENGINE HYDRO-LOCKING

If the engine becomes hydro-locked, do not force the propeller through the 

compression stroke. The excess fuel should be expelled from the engine.

● Completely close the high speed needle valve until it bottoms out, then 

remove the glow plug from the cylinder head.

● With a rag over the top of the engine, turn the crankshaft several times, 

using your electric starter or flipping the propeller by hand. The excess 

fuel will be expelled out of the engine and into the rag.

● Check to make sure that the glow plug has not been fouled, then reinstall it 

and reset the high speed needle valve.

PROPELLER, GLOW PLUG AND FUEL

Propeller Recommendation

The diameter and pitch of the propeller needed for the XLS .61A engine will 

vary greatly depending on the application the engine is used in. The weight, 

drag, type of model, and how you intend to fly it are all factors in determining 

the correct size propeller to use. Experimentation will be necessary to find 

the optimal size propeller for your particular application. Ideally you want 

a propeller that the engine will turn in the 10,000 - 14,000 rpm range on 

the ground, yet power the airplane sufficiently. Using a propeller that is too 

small will cause the engine to run at too high an rpm. Using a propeller that 

is too large will cause the engine to run at too low an rpm, cause it to lug 

down too much and make tuning difficult. In both instances this can lead to 

premature engine wear and eventual failure.

Propeller Size Recommendations

Use for

Break-In 11 x 7

11 x 8

12 x 6

12 x 7

13 x 4

Glow Plug Recommendation

Glow plugs can make a big difference in the performance of your engine. 

We recommend using a long-reach, hot heat-range glow plug intended 

specifically for two-stroke engines. Do not use a cold heat-range plug. 

This can lead to erratic engine runs, difficult tuning and eventual engine 

wear and failure.

Fuel Recommendation

Fuel can make a big difference in the way your engine performs. We recommend 

using two types of fuel with the XLS .61A engine. For the break-in period you 

should use a fuel containing no more than 15% nitro methane and no less 

than 18% Castor/synthetic blend lubricant. Use of fuel containing more than 

the recommended percentage of nitro methane or only synthetic lubricants 

will cause the engine to run too hot and result in excessive wear and engine 

failure in a very short period of time. Once the engine has been adequately 

broken in (about 1/2 gallon of the recommended break-in fuel), we still 

suggest using 15% nitromethane fuel, although a fuel containing up to, but 

no more than, 30% nitro methane and no less than 18% Castor/synthetic 

blend lubricant can be used. Remember though, when using higher 

nitro-content fuels, the engine will run hotter and its useful life will be shortened. 

You must also be careful when leaning out the engine.

WARNING We do not recommend using fuels that contain only synthetic 

lubricants. Synthetic lubricants have a much lower flash point than Castor 

Oil lubricants. Flash point is the point at which the lubricant begins to 

actually burn and lose its lubricating qualities. Using fuels containing 

a blend of Castor Oil and synthetic lubricants results in an engine that 

runs cooler and lasts longer. One lean run using a fuel containing only 

synthetic lubricants can cause engine failure. Using fuels with a Castor 

Oil and synthetic blend of lubricants greatly reduces this chance.

HIGH AND LOW SPEED NEEDLE VALVES

High Speed Needle Valve

The high speed needle valve is used to meter the air/fuel mixture at full 

throttle. Turn the needle valve clockwise to lean the mixture or turn the needle 

valve counterclockwise to richen the mixture. When you start the engine 

for the very first time the needle valve should be turned in completely, then 

backed out 2-1/2 turns. When you start the engine after that, leave the needle 

valve in the same position it was in when you shut down the engine.

Low Speed Needle Valve

The low speed needle valve is preset from the factory for initial starting 

and break-in. Do not adjust it until after the engine is broken in. The 

low speed needle valve regulates the air/fuel mixture at idle and during 

transition from idle to full throttle. Turn the needle valve clockwise to lean 

the mixture or turn the needle valve counterclockwise to richen the mixture. 

The low speed needle valve is preset from the factory, but minor adjustments 

may need to be made after the engine is broken in. To reset the low speed 

needle valve to the factory setting, follow these procedures:

● Open the carburetor barrel completely. 

● While holding the carburetor barrel open, turn the low speed needle 

valve IN (clockwise) GENTLY until it stops. From this point, while still 

holding the carburetor barrel open, turn the low speed needle valve 

OUT (counter-clockwise) 5 full turns. This is the factory setting. 

WARNING It is possible to adjust the low speed needle valve so lean 

that the engine will not draw fuel. The low speed needle valve should 

not need to be adjusted more than one full turn in either direction from 

the factory setting. If the engine does not idle or transition, reset the low 

speed needle valve to the factory setting.

STARTING PROCEDURE

Starting Using an Electric Starter

When using an electric starter it is not necessary to choke and prime the 

engine. The starter turns the engine over fast enough that the engine draws 

fuel on its own. Priming the engine prior to using an electric starter can cause 

the engine to "hydro-lock" or flood. This is a result of too much fuel in the 

engine before it actually fires. Turning the engine over with an electric 

starter while the engine is flooded can cause extreme damage to the 

engine and/or cause the propeller assembly to come loose. Turn the 

propeller through the compression stroke one time by hand to check 

for a hydro-locked state before applying the starter.

Starting by Hand

When starting the engine by hand always use a chicken stick or a heavy 

leather glove. Never just use your bare hand or serious injury could result. 

To make the engine easier to start by hand it should first be primed. This 

is done by opening the carburetor barrel completely and covering the tip 

of the muffler with your finger. Fuel can then be drawn into the engine by 

"pulling" the propeller through the compression stroke 2 - 3 times. This will 

draw fuel into the engine. After fuel begins to enter the carburetor, remove 

your finger from the muffler and pull the propeller through the compression 

stroke once to check for a hydro-locked condition.
4

IMPORTANT Your XLS series engine is an ABC engine. The cylinder 

sleeve is tapered at the top, causing severe resistance when the piston 

moves through the top of the stroke. This is normal. When the engine 

heats up to operating temperature, this resistance will decrease and the 

proper clearance will be achieved. The break-in procedure will guide you 

through the steps necessary to properly break in your new ABC engine. 

Please follow the steps in this section closely.

The break-in process allows the engine parts to perfectly fit each other and 

properly protect each part from premature wear. The engine should be 

broken in using a fuel that contains 15% nitro methane and no less than 

18% Castor/synthetic blend lubricant. Fuel containing only synthetic 

lubricants should not be used during the break-in procedure. For the 

break-in procedure we recommend mounting the engine into the airplane 

it will be used in. This way the muffler, fuel tank and throttle linkage can all 

be tested in combination with the engine. If your airplane uses a cowling, 

it should be removed during the break-in procedure.

❑ 1) Turn the high speed needle valve out 2-1/2 turns from the fully closed 

position.

❑ 2) If you are using an electric starter to start the engine, follow the procedure 

in the previous section. If you are starting the engine by hand, follow that 

procedure in the previous section.

❑ 3) Open the throttle barrel to approximately 1/4 throttle. Connect the 

power to the glow plug. Start the engine using an electric starter or by hand. 

If starting by hand you will need to vigorously flip the propeller through the 

compression stroke several times before the engine will start.

❑ 4) Once the engine starts, open the throttle barrel to about 1/2 throttle. 

You may need to lean the high speed needle valve in about 1/4 turn to keep 

the engine running at half throttle.

❑ 5) After the engine has been running about 1 minute, remove the power 

from the glow plug and slowly advance the throttle barrel to full throttle. 

Adjust the high speed needle valve so that the engine is running very rich. 

You should notice excessive white smoke coming from the exhaust. Let the 

engine run for approximately 10 minutes then stop the engine.

❑ 6) Let the engine cool for approximately 10 minutes then restart it. Set 

the high speed needle valve mixture to a slightly leaner setting, about 1/4 

turn more in. Let the engine run for about 5 minutes at this setting, then 

stop the engine and let it cool for approximately 10 minutes.

❑ 7) Repeat the procedure in step # 6, while leaning the needle valve 

slightly more each time. In all, you should run the engine about a total of 45 

minutes of actual running time. After 45 minutes of run-time the engine is 

ready for flight. Fly the airplane with the engine set as rich as possible, but 

with adequate power to fly the airplane. After each flight, lean the mixture 

slightly. Continue to do this for about 5 flights. At this point the engine should 

hold a good setting on the high speed needle valve and you can begin to 

fine tune the needle valve settings to increase performance.

Now that your engine is broken in, you can set the high and low speed needle 

valves for optimum performance.

WARNING Be careful never to lean the engine out too much. Remember 

that the lubricants for your engine are suspended in the fuel. If you lean 

out the fuel mixture too much you will also be lowering the amount of 

lubricant entering your engine. Less lubricant means more chance of 

your engine overheating and possible engine failure.

Information about returning your engine for warranty service, can be 

found on the separate sheets packaged with these Operating Instructions.

Magnum XLS series engines are distributed exclusively in North America and South America by 

Global Hobby Distributors 18480 Bandilier Circle, Fountain Valley, CA 92708

All contents copyright © 2006, Global Hobby Distributors

Revision 1 November 2006

BREAK-IN PROCEDURE

OPTIMIZING THE MIXTURE SETTINGS

Setting the High Speed Needle Valve

❑ 1) Start the engine and remove the power from the glow plug. Allow the 

engine to warm up for about 30 seconds.

❑ 2) After the engine has warmed up, slowly lean the high speed mixture 

until the engine reaches peak rpm. After reaching peak rpm, richen the 

mixture slightly until an audible drop in rpm is heard. If you are using a 

tachometer this should be between a 200 - 300 rpm drop.

❑ 3) With the engine running at full power, carefully lift the nose of the 

airplane about 45o into the air. The mixture should not become too lean, 

but you may hear a slight increase in rpm. If the engine sags, or loses rpm 

when you hold the nose up, the mixture is too lean. If this is the case, slightly 

richen the mixture and follow the test once more.

IMPORTANT Rpm will increase about 10% - 30% in the air. This is 

due to the forward motion of the aircraft as it is flying. Because of this, 

more air is entering the carburetor, at a higher force, which causes the 

mixture to lean out. Additionally, as the fuel level in the fuel tank goes 

down, fuel draw becomes more difficult for the engine, especially during 

aerobatics, thus causing the mixture to go lean. It is imperative that you 

set the mixture rich while on the ground to compensate for the leaning 

tendencies that will happen in the air. Always watch the exhaust during 

your flight. The engine should leave a noticeable white smoke trail at 

all times. If there is no smoke trail, the engine is running too lean. You 

should land immediately and reset the mixture.

Setting the Low Speed Needle Valve

❑ 1) Start the engine and lean out the high speed needle valve as per the 

previous steps. Close the throttle until the slowest reliable idle is reached. 

Allow the engine to idle for about 15 - 20 seconds.

❑ 2) Quickly advance the throttle to full. If the engine just stops running 

as soon as the throttle is advanced, the idle mixture is too lean. With the 

engine stopped, richen the idle mixture about 1/8 of a turn. 

❑ 3) Repeat steps # 1 and # 2 until the engine will transition from idle to 

full throttle smoothly. Minor hesitation in the transition is normal.

❑ 4) If you quickly advance the throttle from idle to full and the engine seems 

to be very rich during transition (i.e., lots of smoke coming from the exhaust), 

the mixture is too rich. With the engine stopped, lean the idle mixture about 

1/8 of a turn.

❑ 5) Repeat steps # 1 and # 4 until the engine will transition from idle to 

full throttle smoothly. Minor hesitation in the transition is normal.

● Avoid running the engine under dusty conditions. If you are in a dusty 

environment we suggest using an air filter over the carburetor.

● At the end of every flying day, purge the engine of fuel by disconnecting 

the fuel line and allowing the engine to run dry of fuel.

● Use a high quality after-run oil in the engine after you have purged the 

engine of fuel. Inject the oil into the engine through the carburetor and 

through the glow plug hole. Rotate the crankshaft several times to distribute 

the oil throughout the engine. This will prevent the engine from forming rust.

● Periodically check to make sure all of the engine bolts are tight.

ENGINE MAINTENANCE

Global Services 18480 Bandilier Circle Fountain Valley, CA 92708 Phone: (714) 963-0329 Fax: (714) 964-6236 Email: service@globalhobby.net

For service in other countries, please contact your local dealer

or Magnum Engines Agent in your country.
OUR RECOMMENDATIONS

The following items are recommended for use with your Magnum XLS 

series aircraft engine. These items are recommended for initial start-up 

and running. Please read through the Operating Instructions for further 

details.

Fuel: We suggest Power Master 15% 2-Stroke Blend (P/N 275198) 

for break-in.

We suggest Power Master 15% 2-Stroke Blend (P/N 275198) 

for normal use.

We suggest using Power Master brand fuels. Power Master fuel comes 

in many different nitromethane contents that can be used in your XLS 

series engine. Power Master fuels are blended using only high-quality 

nitromethane, methanol, Castor Oil and synthetic lubricants to provide 

high power output, along with easy starting and unmatched lubricating 

and heat dissipation qualities. For the lower nitro content necessary for 

break-in and for normal use, too, use 15% 2-stroke blend. After break-in, 

for extra performance, you can use up to 30% 2-stroke blend. For more 

information about using 30% fuel, please refer to the Operating 

Instructions.

Fuel Tank: Dubro 14oz. Fuel Tank (P/N 568543)

Dubro fuel tanks are a perfect match for your XLS series engine. This 

size recommendation will give you about 15 minutes of run-time at full 

throttle. Dubro fuel tanks are possibly the easiest fuel tanks to assemble 

and maintain.

Glow Plug: Thunderbolt # 3 Glow Plug (P/N 115559)

The Thunderbolt # 3 glow plug is designed to be used in high-performance 

engines using fuels containing 10% - 30% nitro content and in any 

environment. It is a "hot" type of glow plug for easy starting, excellent 

transition and incredible top end. The glow plug is also very durable and 

able to withstand repeated use, day after day.

Propeller: APC 11 x 7 Propeller (P/N 608570)

We have found that XLS series engines run best using APC brand props. 

They are designed to be very efficient and run quiet at high rpm’s, and 

they are also durable. Use this size prop to break in your engine, then 

change to the prop that best suits your application. Use the guide in the 

Operating Instructions to help you find the right size propeller.

Glow Starter: Flight Leader Glow Starter w/Meter (P/N 404024)

The Flight Leader glow starter is an excellent choice for heating the 

glow plug. It uses a 2400mAH NiCD battery, includes a meter to 

determine the quality of your glow plug, and it also includes a charger 

to recharge the battery. It’s very economical and can be used with most 

glow aircraft engines.

XLS .61A AIRCRAFT ENGINE QUICK-START GUIDE

The following information is provided to get your new Magnum XLS series engine running right away with minimal effort. We have listed our 

recommendations for fuel, propeller, starting procedures and other recommended accessories. Also included is general information about the 

accessories needed for the engine that we hope you will find helpful. 

This Quick-Start Guide should not be used as a replacement for the Operating Instructions included; rather, it should be used along with the Operating 

Instructions. We highly recommend reading through the Operating Instructions to familiarize yourself with each part of the engine, along with the 

proper procedures for engine break-in and tuning.

Engine Mount: Magnum Adjustable Engine Mount (P/N 279951)

The Magnum Adjustable Engine Mount is a glass-filled reinforced nylon 

beam mount that mounts onto a plywood firewall in the model. It is 

lightweight, strong, easy to install and features adjustable width.

Engine Preparation

❑ 1) Mount the engine to the recommended engine mount. A wood beam 

mount built into the airframe would also be sufficient.

❑ 2) Install the carburetor, rear needle valve assembly and muffler onto 

the engine using the hardware provided. The muffler cone can be rotated 

to better suit the installation in your model. Be sure to tighten the nut 

securely to prevent the muffler cone from loosening.

❑ 3) Install the propeller to the engine using the propeller nut and washer 

provided. Tighten the nut securely using an adjustable wrench.

❑ 4) Connect the fuel lines from the fuel tank to the engine. The fuel 

pick-up line should be connected to the fuel nipple on the rear needle 

valve assembly and the pressure line should be connected to the pressure 

nipple on the muffler.

Engine Starting

❑ 1) Carefully turn the high speed needle valve in completely until it stops, 

then turn the needle valve out 2-1/2 turns. This is the mixture setting for 

initial starting. Do not readjust the low speed needle valve.

❑ 2) If hand starting, prime the engine by opening the throttle barrel 

completely, placing your finger over the carburetor opening and flipping 

the prop through compression 2 -3 times. If you will be using an electric 

starter, do not prime the engine. The starter will turn the engine over fast 

enough to draw fuel on its own.

❑ 3) Connect the glow starter to the glow plug. Open the carburetor barrel 

to about 1/4 throttle and start the engine. If you are starting the engine 

by hand, you will need to vigorously flip the prop several times before the 

engine will start. Once the engine begins running, immediately turn the 

high speed needle valve in about 1/4 turn to keep the engine running.

❑ 4) Advance the throttle to full while turning the high speed needle 

valve in to keep the engine running. The engine should be producing a 

very noticeable white exhaust from the muffler and sound like it is running 

rough. Allow the engine to run only for about 5 minutes, then shut the 

engine off.

❑ 5) Now that you have started your engine, it must be properly broken 

in. Proper break-in will seat all of the moving parts, particularly the piston 

and cylinder. This procedure takes about 20-30 minutes of run-time 

and is highly recommended. An engine that is properly broken in will 

produce more power, be more user-friendly and last much longer than an 

engine that does not receive a break-in period. For this reason we highly 

recommend following the break-in procedure detailed in the Operating 

Instructions before you run the engine further.

QUICK-STARTING PROCEDURES

Troubleshooting and Warranty Information on Back
XLS .61A AIRCRAFT ENGINE TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

This troubleshooting guide has been provided to help you diagnose and solve most problems that you may encounter with your XLS 

series engine. Most problems encountered can be solved by carefully following the problem-cause-solution sections below. If you 

cannot solve the problem using this troubleshooting guide, please feel free to contact us using the information below.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

All Magnum engines returned for warranty service must be within the warranty terms as stated on the warranty card provided with your engine. Do not return the engine 

to the place of purchase. They are not authorized or equipped to perform warranty work on Magnum products. For warranty service in countries other than 

within North and South America, please contact your local dealer or Magnum Engines Agent in your country. When requesting warranty service, 

please observe the following guidelines:

● Always send the complete engine including the carburetor and muffler. The engine must be removed from the model.

● Include a note detailing the problem or service you are requesting. Service cannot be provided without this information. Include your Email address and daytime phone 

number in the event we need more details pertaining to the service requested.

● You may request an estimate of services at the time you return your engine for service. An omission of this request implies permission for the Magnum Service Center 

to service your engine at our discretion.

● Include a method of payment for any service charges.

● Send the engine to us by United Parcel Service, Federal Express or by Insured Mail. Postage is not refundable. Send to:

Global Services ● 18480 Bandilier Circle ● Fountain Valley, CA 92708

Phone (714) 963-0329 ● Fax (714) 964-6236 ● Email: service@globalhobby.net

1) Engine does not start A) Failed glow plug A) Replace glow plug with new one

 B) Glow starter not charged and/or faulty B) Fully charge glow starter and/or replace

 C) Engine not being turned over fast enough C) Use an electric starter to start engine

 D) Low speed needle valve set too lean D) Reset low speed needle valve to factory setting

 E) Old or contaminated fuel E) Replace with new fuel

F) Engine flooded with too much fuel F) Remove glow plug and expel fuel from cylinder

 G) Faulty fuel tank and/or stopper assembly G) Check and/or replace fuel tank assembly

 H) Air leak in fuel system and/or engine H) Replace fuel lines and/or tighten all engine bolts

2) Engine does not draw fuel A) Air leak in fuel system and/or engine A) Replace fuel lines and/or tighten all engine bolts

 B) High speed needle valve fully closed B) Reset high speed needle valve to factory setting

 C) Low speed needle valve set too lean C) Reset low speed needle valve to factory setting

 D) Fuel lines kinked D) Check and straighten fuel lines

 E) Defective fuel tank E) Replace fuel tank

3) Engine vibrates excessively A) Propeller out of balance A) Balance propeller

 B) Engine and/or engine mount loose B) Tighten engine mounting bolts

4) Engine does not transition A) Failed and/or wrong type glow plug A) Replace with new recommended glow plug

 B) Old and/or wrong type fuel B) Replace with new recommended fuel

 C) High speed needle valve set too rich C) Set high speed needle valve to leaner setting

 D) Low speed needle valve set too lean D) Set low speed needle valve richer

 E) Low speed needle valve set too rich E) Set low speed needle valve leaner

 F) Air leak in fuel system and/or engine F) Replace fuel lines and/or tighten all engine bolts

 G) Propeller too large G) Replace with one size smaller propeller

5) Throttle barrel does not A) Idle stop screw and/or throttle servo linkage out A) Adjust idle stop screw and/or throttle linkage to close 

close completely of adjustment throttle barrel completely

6) Engine overheats A) Engine running too lean A) Richen high speed needle valve

 B) Cowl too restrictive B) Open larger vents in cowling to allow air to exit

 C) Wrong type of fuel used C) Use fuel with recommended oil content

 D) Engine not fully broken in D) Allow engine further break-in time

7) Engine stops abruptly A) Engine running too lean A) Richen high speed needle valve

 B) Piston and sleeve out of tolerances B) Return engine to Global Services

 C) Engine Overheating C) See # 6 above

PROBLEM CAUSE SOLUTION
XLS .61A AIRCRAFT ENGINE EXPLODED PARTS VIEW

Revision 1 November 2006

Replacement parts can be ordered directly from your local Magnum Engine hobby retailer. 

If your hobby retailer does not stock Magnum engines, you can order direct from us.

Global Services

18480 Bandilier Circle

Fountain Valley, CA 92708

Phone: (714) 963-0329

Fax: (714) 964-6236

Email: service@globalhobby.net

282519

280155

Reference Numbers, Descriptions and a Dimensional 

Drawing are Listed on the Back Page
280113 120609 Muffler Gasket Set (2)

280154 S61601 Muffler Assembly

280155 S61416 Gasket Set (Includes 281126 & 281218)

280214 61228 Propeller Nut and Washer Set

280308 61238X Drive Washer and Collet Set

280534 S61101 Crankcase

280616 S61102 Backplate

280947 S61203 Piston and Sleeve Set

281034 S61103 Cylinder Head

281126 S61112 Cylinder Head Gasket Set (2)

281151 400160 Sleeve Index Pin

281162 S91120 Muffler Bolt Set (2)

281163 91130 Split Washer Set (2)

281166 12862 High Speed Needle Valve Seat Assembly

281168 46871F Rear Needle Valve Plug

281173 32H811 Throttle Arm Retaining Nut

281218 S61111 Backplate Gasket

281412 61109 Front Ball Bearing

281421 S61210 Crankshaft

281504 61123 Rear Needle Valve Mounting Bolt Set (2)

281603 28134 Carburetor Retaining Bolt Set (2)

281715 120616 Muffler Axial Bolt and Nut Set

281811 46861F High Speed Needle Valve with O-Ring

281812 46860F High Speed Needle Valve Assembly

281814 61874F Rear Needle Valve Assembly

ORDER # REFERENCE # DESCRIPTION

281815 61873F Rear Needle Valve Assembly Bracket

281901 12833 Detent Spring

281903 12847 High Speed Needle Valve Seat Gasket

282002 12819 Fuel/Pressure Nipple with Fiber Washer

282004 12114 Fuel/Pressure Nipple

282130 46814A Throttle Barrel Spring

282159 S32868F High Speed Needle Valve Plug

282202 12812 Throttle Arm

282310 46810F Low Speed Needle Valve with O-Ring

282405 91816 Carburetor Base O-Ring

282412 40845 Low Speed Needle Valve O-Ring

282452 46845F High Speed Needle Valve O-Ring

282501 91137 Fuel Nipple Fiber Washer

282511 61134 Backplate Bolt Set (4)

282519 120901 Screw Set (Includes 283123 & 282511)

282608 46837F Idle Stop Screw Set

283025 S61801F Carburetor Assembly - Complete

283026 S61863F Carburetor Body with Spray Bar

283027 61813F Throttle Barrel

283123 120123 Cylinder Head Bolt Set (6)

284037 400110 Rear Ball Bearing

284206 12830 High Speed Needle Valve Seat

284264 80204 Connecting Rod

280821 61213 Wrist Pin and Retainer Set

ORDER # REFERENCE # DESCRIPTION

XLS .61A AIRCRAFT ENGINE PARTS LIST

XLS .61A AIRCRAFT ENGINE DIMENSIONAL DRAWING

A B C D E F G H I J K L M

3-13/16" 5" 3-5/32" 4" 15/16" 1-7/16" 1-5/8" 2" 2-3/8" 1-3/32" 1-5/8" 2" 1/2"