Helping McCOY RH Longevity

I had these when I was a kid and have a couple now. I can't say I'm all the wiser now, but I've learned a few things that might help keep these engines in useable shape FAR longer if you get them in excellent or (like) new shape now.

First and foremost...use a high lube fuel! ...25% minimum, preferably more (up to 30%) and all castor oil if you can. Keep the nitro at 10% or less.

I remember the late George Aldrich saying that one BIG problem with the McCOY's was that the wrist pin moved and easily scored the cylinder while running...not good! I 'scavenged' some teflon wrist pin ends from an OS or ??? engine and slipped them into place on a McCOY wrist pin. Yes, there were some modifications required for them to work...some sanding/filing...but that ended the potential problem of cylinder scoring.

Another problem Mr. Aldrich mentioned was the rod...kinda hard to get the ends lubed good. I got a recommendation about drilling a small hole on the top of the piston end and then flare it out on the outside by using a countersinking bit, etc. ...that will keep the 'top end' well lubed.

If by chance you can get your hands on a thrust washer that will work for these engines that is a good idea, too.

Currently, I have a .19 RH LB and a .35 RH that work GREAT and I think they will keep doin' it for a LONG time because of these 'mods'. I've also learned to not run the engines 'way' lean by all of the 'fine folks' on all of the web pages 'out there'.

Some will say that McCOY engines aren't a lot to be 'fussed' about...but I beg to differ. They are one of the things that brought me into this fine hobby...I'm thinking that is a good thing.

Should you have any other ideas to help these engines last longer and/or run better, PLEASE, pass on your ideas here. I'm eager to see what others are doing to help their McCOY engines last.

Eugene S. Chernosky
AMA 639635

Hi V.I.
Can't add too much to what you've posted.
I run quite a few McCoy RHs and like them a lot. Very good break and just look right in a Classic ship.
I used to run mine on Fox Superfuel, and nothing else, but since that is no longer available around here, I just add enough castor to the Sig 10%/25 all castor to dring it up to about 29% oil. A touch more nitro than FSF, but the McCoys like it.
Enjoy them! I would like to see someone bring back the Red Head 40 with modern metals.
Bill <><