A perfectly tuned engine means nothing if the fuel system feeding it isn’t up to the task. One of the most common causes of deadsticks, inconsistent tuning, and field frustration isn’t the engine—it’s the fuel system.
In this DU-BRO RC Masterclass on Setting Up Fuel Systems, we dive deep into one of the most critical—and often misunderstood—parts of an RC airplane build. From tank selection and plumbing to venting and filtration, this episode walks step-by-step through how to build a reliable, efficient fuel system that delivers consistent performance and peace of mind.
Whether you’re working with glow or gas, building new or troubleshooting old problems, these fundamentals matter.
Choosing the Right Fuel Tank
Every reliable fuel system starts with the correct tank.
Key considerations include:
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Proper tank size for engine and flight duration
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Compatibility with glow or gasoline fuel
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Secure mounting to prevent movement and foaming
A tank that’s too large, improperly mounted, or incompatible with your fuel type can lead to inconsistent fuel delivery and tuning challenges.
Fuel Line Routing and Plumbing Basics
Clean, thoughtful plumbing is essential for smooth engine operation.
This masterclass covers:
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Correct fuel line routing to avoid kinks and sharp bends
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Keeping lines away from heat sources and moving parts
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Using quality tubing designed for glow or gas fuel
Poor routing or low-quality fuel line can restrict flow, introduce air bubbles, or degrade over time—leading to unpredictable engine behavior.
Clunk Setup: Small Part, Big Impact
The clunk is one of the most important components in the entire fuel system.
Best practices include:
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Ensuring the clunk moves freely inside the tank
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Positioning it so it can reach fuel in all flight attitudes
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Using the correct clunk type for glow or gasoline
A clunk that sticks, binds, or sits incorrectly can cause fuel starvation—especially during aerobatics or landing approaches.
Proper Tank Venting
Correct venting allows fuel to flow smoothly as it’s consumed.
In this session, we explain:
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How vent lines should be routed
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Why improper venting leads to lean runs and engine cutouts
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How scale vent exits can be functional and realistic
A blocked or poorly routed vent line is a common but easily avoided cause of deadsticks.
Fuel Filters and Clean Fuel Delivery
Fuel contamination is an engine killer.
The masterclass highlights:
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When and where to use fuel filters
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How filters protect carburetors from debris
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The importance of clean fuel during fueling and storage
A simple filter can prevent hours of troubleshooting and costly repairs.
Common Fuel System Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Many fuel-related issues come from the same few mistakes:
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Incorrect tubing for gasoline vs. glow fuel
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Poor clunk placement or restricted movement
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Air leaks at fittings or tank penetrations
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Overcomplicated plumbing that creates failure points
Joshua and Brian break down these pitfalls and show how to avoid them using proven DU-BRO techniques.
Glow vs. Gas Fuel System Considerations
While the fundamentals are similar, glow and gas systems have key differences.
This Masterclass explains:
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Material requirements for gasoline fuel
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Line sizes and filtration differences
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Long-term durability considerations
Understanding these differences ensures safety, reliability, and proper engine performance.
Build It Right the First Time
A well-designed fuel system doesn’t just run—it inspires confidence. When the tank is secure, the plumbing is clean, the clunk moves freely, and the venting is correct, engines tune easier, idle better, and stay running when it matters most.
At DU-BRO RC, we believe reliability starts with fundamentals. This Masterclass delivers practical, real-world guidance to help builders eliminate guesswork and build fuel systems that perform as good as they look.
