The Super Tigre G4500 is a legendary, massive 45.24cc (2.76 cu. in.) single-cylinder glow-plug RC airplane engine manufactured in Italy by SuperTigre. Known for its immense low-end torque (“stump puller”), it remains one of the largest production glow engines ever built.
Displacement: 45.24 cc / 2.760 cu. in.
Bore x Stroke: 40 mm x 36 mm (1.57 in. x 1.42 in.)
Power Output: 4.5 BHP @ 8,000 RPMWeight: 66.56 oz (2005 grams) without muffler
Recommended Propellers: 20×8, 20×10, 22×8, up to 24×10
Low Nitro Preference: The G4500 is specifically designed to run on 0% to 5% nitromethane fuel. High-nitro fuel will cause it to burn through fuel excessively and run roughly.
Oil Content: It runs best on a 10% to 14% oil mixture (typically castor or high-quality synthetic) after a complete break-in.
Thirsty Behavior: Users note that it consumes a very large volume of glow fuel. Many hobbyists mix their own methanol and castor oil to reduce operating costs.
Vibration and Weight: By modern standards, the engine is heavy and produces significant vibration compared to newer electronic-ignition gasoline engines.
Throttle Transition: It requires a gradual throttle advance. Rushing the throttle can flood or stall the large carburetor.Gasoline Conversion: Because glow fuel is expensive, many owners convert the G4500 to run on gasoline by installing a CDI electronic ignition module, a micro-magnet on the drive hub, a Hall effect sensor, and a 1/4-32 spark plug.
Parts Availability: Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement parts are out of production and highly difficult to source. New-old-stock (NOS) items or secondary donor engines are typically required for repairs.
