14 best rotary model engines
Rotary model engines, also known as model rotary engines or model Wankel engines, are miniature versions of the rotary engines used in some real-world applications. These model engines are often used in educational kits, toys, and as learning tools to help people understand the principles of internal combustion engines. Here's what you need to know about rotary model engines:
Wankel Engine Principle: Rotary model engines are based on the Wankel engine design, which is different from traditional piston engines. The key feature of a Wankel engine is its rotary motion, where a triangular rotor rotates within a housing to complete the combustion cycle.
Educational Kits: Rotary model engines are commonly included in science kits and educational packages designed to teach students or enthusiasts about the fundamental principles of internal combustion engines. These kits often come with all the necessary components to assemble a working model engine.
Learning and Education: Building and operating a rotary model engine can be a hands-on educational experience. It helps individuals understand concepts like compression, ignition, and exhaust in a practical and engaging way.
Assembly and Operation: Users typically assemble the model engine from individual parts, which may include the rotor, housing, spark plug, and other components. Once assembled, the engine can be operated using a hand crank or an electric motor.
Working Components: The model engine's rotor moves in a continuous rotary motion within the housing.The spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture within the housing, generating power. This power can be harnessed to perform mechanical work, such as turning a crankshaft or other accessories included in the kit.
Simplified Design: Rotary model engines are simplified versions of real Wankel engines, with fewer parts and smaller dimensions. This makes them more accessible for educational purposes and less complex to assemble.
Demonstration and Entertainment: In addition to educational use, rotary model engines are sometimes used in toys and entertainment products. These models may not be as detailed or accurate as educational kits but can still provide a basic understanding of engine operation while offering entertainment value.
Maintenance and Safety: Users should follow safety guidelines when operating model rotary engines, as they involve flammable fuels and combustion processes. Regular maintenance may be required to keep the engine running smoothly.
Variety: There are various types of rotary model engines available, ranging from simple plastic models to more sophisticated metal versions. The complexity and features can vary, catering to different age groups and levels of understanding.
In summary, rotary model engines are educational tools and toys designed to demonstrate the principles of internal combustion engines, specifically the Wankel engine design. They offer hands-on learning experiences and can be both educational and entertaining for users interested in mechanics and engineering concepts.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best rotary model engines on the market
Aoshima Models Rotary Spirit MSP Mazda Model Kit (1/5 Scale)
§Ａ∞ＡＯＳＨＩＭＡ
Product description
This kit is the Mazda 13B-MSP engine. The "Spirit" part of this model is that it's entirely made of clear plastic.
- This is a 1/5 scale Rotary Spirit MSP
- Pre-assembled item
- No assembly required
User questions & answers
| Question: | does it spin |
| Answer: | No it is not |
Minicraft Models Honda 750 Engine 1/3 Scale
Minicraft Models
Product description
This kit represents an operating plastic assembly kit of a Classic 4-cylinder air-cooled overhead cam motorcycle engine from the 1970’s. The assembled kit can be displayed with a portion of the cylinder head removed to demonstrate the operation of internal parts including pistons, valves and overhead camshaft.
- Plastic and metal parts with electric motor and wiring (2 AA batteries not included)
- Unique “kick start” on-off switch
- Includes pre-painted and molded in color parts - No painting required
- Illustrated assembly instructions
- Skill level 3 kit
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it run |
| Answer: | Oh most definitely!! Good luck! |
YIFAN V4 4-Cylinder Car Engine Assembly Kit That Runs, DIY Full Metal Engine Model Kits to Build for Adults Kids Over 12 Years
Product description
Color: As Shown
Material: Aluminum Alloy + Stainless Steel + Lithium Battery
Product Dimensions: 15.4*12.2*18.6cm
Product Weight: 1812g
Packing: In-line Punching EVA,Into The High-grade Metal Gift Box With A Hand Bag
Package Content:
1Set x Inline Four-cylinder Engine Model Toys
- Meticulous Workmanship: The product is made of metal, using CNC technology precision casting, aluminum alloy oxidation color, with the collection of crafts level of exquisite workmanship, 325 parts are exquisitely polished by professional grinding tools, a perfect interpretation of the human wisdom of the great industrial era of creation and aspiration
- High Degree Of Restoration: The classic inventions of history as the design prototype, presenting the core principles of machine operation, intuitive display of the core value of the machine. Proportional modeling, highly restored
- Challenge Yourself: The product comes with English instructions. The user is required to assemble the parts for the whole machine and spend more than 4 hours to complete the assembly, with a difficulty level of 4.5 stars. When you feel the beauty of the machinery, you can also exercise your hands-on skills and know more about the structure of the engine
- Exquisite Packaging: Each product is packed in a high-grade metal gift box with a handbag. At the same time, each part is placed in a very orderly manner. Whether it's a gift or a collection, this is well worth it
- Power Supply: In order to make the product run easily and without harm to the product, the use of electric motors instead of traditional gasoline. Lithium battery capacity of 500MAH, can run in a fully charged state not less than 30 minutes
User questions & answers
| Question: | Why r you selling for so much I have seen same kit for $39 plus shipping |
| Answer: | Because this is an operating with moving parts when finished, parts must be removed from the sprues carefully and have smooth surfaces before assembly. You will need an exacto knife with plenty of replacement blades, some "nippers" / "side cutters" will help. Small screwdriver. Also some fine sandpaper on a wood block helps to smooth the part sprue areas. If your workspace is limited, I recommend several old butter tubs, coffee cups or similar to keep your removed and "cleaned" parts separate. Last: Time. Don't rush it and, for me, working with my 5 year old made it fun and memorable for both of us. IMO, do not use any oil or lubrication because it will eventually get gummy and dirty. Tester's tube glue is ok if you are not comfortable using liquid glue on those few parts that require glue. I mounted mine on a small block of oak, but that is not necessary. I think that's it. |
| Question: | Why is price so high? Facebook has supplier showing for $29 + shipping |
| Answer: | Glue paint vegetable oil a small screwdriver that should be all you need |
| Question: | When you make one for Harley Davidson let me know please |
| Answer: | Four cylinder engine model, assembled with screws, $50.00 kit sold by the Smithsonian. Excellent model. The Revel V-8 model is a mess, but this one is quite good. |
| Question: | Why are you charging 10 times the amount that this item costs elsewhere |
| Answer: | The only portions that are pre-assembled are the electric drive motor assembly, the LED "spark plug" light assembly, and the battery pack. All the other parts are completely unassembled. You will truly build an engine from the ground up. |
Wankel Rotary Engine Model - Eisco Labs
Eisco
Product description
EISCO Wankel Engine Model, Hand powered
This model shows the internal structure and operating principles of a Wankel engine. This model is cut away to show the internal constructional details. Unlike other engines, the rotary piston engine avoids reciprocating parts. The power piston is an arch like triangular rotor which upon rotation, generates an epitrechoid. .
Hand powered motion supplied through a crank demonstrates the moving parts of the engine as a handcrank is rotated.
A simulated spark plug uses a small lamp to indicate the firing point.
Solidly constructed out of aluminum and plastic. This large model measures 8 x 7 x 3.5 inches and is mounted on an 8 x 8 x 2.5 inch base. A placard on the base labels all key components. Perfect for classroom demonstration or as a gift for the car enthusiast executive.
Lamp requires 2 AA batteries (not included).
Jensen Toy Steam Engine Model 75 Hobby Craft Toys Made in America
Product description
Jensen Steam Engines Model #75 Features:
- Full-featured
- Mid-sized
- Double acting slide valve stationary cylinder
- Dry fueled engine
- 2-1/8 x 6 boiler
- Spin Start
- Reversible
- Pop Valve
- Whistle
- Throttle
- Proudly Hand-Crafted in the U.S.A.
- One Package of 20 x 4g (0.14oz) Tablets.
- One 4g Tablet has an approximate run time of 5min.
ALL engines equipped with:
- Seamless brass silver soldered boilers
- Deluxe 3" power take off flywheel
- Safety valve
- Whistle & throttle valve (except #85)
- Nickel plated finish engine and boiler
- Water level guage
- Custom lube oil
- Filling funnel
- Dry fuel for 1 hour running time (except electrics)
- Operator's manual.
- Proudly 100% hand-crafted in the U.S.A. with a rich 80+ year history.
- The last remaining American manufacturer of it's kind, but we still use the original tooling, dies and hand craftsmanship for which we are known.
- The attention to quality and detail make our legendary engines highly prized by the hobbyist, student, educator, power plant operator, engineer and collector.
- Same as #25, but powered with dry fuel tablets
- Perfect for science fair and scouting projects or hobbyist...and the "purist" wanting the thrill of "shoveling the coal".
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is this supposed to come with a fuel tray? Mine did not |
| Answer: | This kit comes assembled and it is awesome to run!! |
| Question: | Where can I get an electric version |
| Answer: | Yes. The model kit has an electric motor powered by 2 AA batteries (not included). The electric motor and batteries and concealed in the Honda's engine cases. Check this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkV94Qn6YbQ to see the model engine in action. Hope this helps, Sam. |
| Question: | what fuel used for this engine and is it included |
| Answer: | Yes. Clear plastic and it spins. Cool. |
| Question: | does this product come as a kit or assembled |
| Answer: | Black. |
Model Airways MA1031 Sopwith Camel Clerget Rotary Engine 1:16 Scale - Metal Kit
Product description
WORLD WAR I Rotary Aircraft Engine HISTORY Developed by Clerget and manufactured in France, the Clerget 9B was an improvement over the company's seven cylinder, 80 hp rotary engine. In versions of 110 to 140 hp, these models saw widespread use throughout the first world war in the F.1 Camel, Triplane and Baby by Sopwith, and in the Nieuport 12. The model 9B was rated at 130 hp in normal use but could be pushed to 135 in an emergency at 1,250 rpm. Maximum weight was 380 pounds. Although a counter-intuitive design by today’s standards, fixing the propeller to a spinning engine on a stationary crankshaft simplified cooling, had an excellent weight to horsepower ratio and allowed greater flexibility in locating the aircraft’s center of gravity – affecting maneuverability -- over the in-line engines of the time. One drawback, however, was the pronounced gyroscopic effect that pulled the aircraft to the right. To fly in a straight line, pilots had to compensate for this by applying constant left rudder. The Clerget rotaries provided improved speed control over the Gnome and Le Rhone rotaries by replacing the standard “blip” switch that temporarily grounded the magneto (killing the ignition) with a selector switch that restricted the engine to run on 9, 7, 5 or even 3 cylinders. Like the earlier rotaries, the Clerget spewed unburned castor-oil from the exhaust, adding to the pilot’s discomfort. Pilots were issued a small bottle of blackberry brandy to counteract the smoke’s laxative effect. Instructions and prototype by Kenneth H. Goldman
- Historically accurate, highly detailed metal model
- Scale: 3/4" = 1' (1:16); Height: 3-3/4" (95mm); Propeller Diameter: 6-3/4"(171mm
- Three laser cut basswood parts for propeller assembly
- Cast Britannia (pewter) metal & brass engine parts
- Assembly required, detailed instructions included. Previous modeling experience helpful
User questions & answers
| Question: | Dose the prop spin |
| Answer: | Nope, no painting. The clear plastics that you see in the picture are for being able to see the internals move during its battery operated cycle. Takes a couple hours to assemble with the separation of parts since it’s multiple pieces formed/poured in one molding. But it’s multiple moldings. It doesn’t take much effort. My main recommendation is having a pocketknife or a utility knife handy to clean up the ear like sections on the pieces after removing from the molds for smooth operation. |
| Question: | Do metal parts reqiure paint |
| Answer: | 2 AA batteries required. |
1/5 engine No.02 Rotary spirit MSP2 plated (japan import) by Aoshima
Aoshima
Product description
Product Description Complete type of rotary engine 13B, is the principle model of 13B-MSP multi-side port is equipped. Plated in rotary-specific housing and the rotor, it is the best model in the exhibition. Rotary engine is performed the combustion in the working chamber formed by the housing and the rotor, generated energy is converted into rotational motion by the eccentric shaft. This model will be able to see the movement of the rotor by turning by hand the shaft.
- This is the 1/5 Scale Rotary Engine MP2 Plastic Model Kit by Aoshima. Suitable for Ages 15 & Older.
- Features: Plastic pieces molded in chrome Shows the principles of the Maxda 13B-MSP engine
- Includes: One 1/5 Scale Rotary Engine MP2
- Part number(s) included (in factory packaging): 95584
- Size: 2.9 x 2.9 x 2 inches
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it rotate |
| Answer: | All parts are chrome plated plastic. |
| Question: | Even though this comes assembled, could you easily take it apart and then re-assemble it |
| Answer: | Yes, it is supposed to come with a fuel tray. As an aside, I modified the tray by adding a small wooden handle to facilitate moving it in and out of the heating chamber without burning my fingers. Also, don't be surprised by the effect of the heat on the paint of the lower part of the engine. It seems to be inevitable as you are using it more and more. |
| Question: | Is it hard to build |
| Answer: | At our web store MiniSteam we have 5-6 various electric models |
| Question: | is the housing metal |
| Answer: | The fuel is called Esbit tabletshttp://www.esbit.de/en/http://www.jensensteamengines.com/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byPKjc5H4Qc |
Playz V8 Combustion Engine Model Building Kit STEM Hobby Toy for Kids & Adults with DIY Guide & Realistic Parts Including Timing Belt, Cylinder Heads, Spark Plugs, Pistons, Ignition Wires, and More
Product description
Playz Kids DIY Toy V8 Combustion Engine Model Kit will amaze both children and parents alike by the realistic engine simulation. Put over 500 pieces together using the easy to follow instruction guide as you learn about how a real life engine is built.
After enhancing one’s divergent thinking, manual dexterity, and gratifying sense of accomplishment, Playz Kids DIY Toy V8 Combustion Engine Model Kit will be the prize trophy on any car lover’s desk, shelf, or classroom.
With a simple press of the power button, prepare to be amazed. The cooling fan spins, pistons fire up and down, light bulbs flick on and off in perfect sequence mimicking the air-fuel combustion process, and since it runs on three AA batteries (not included) there is no need to worry about pricy gasoline to enjoy the show.
In addition to the mechanical skills acquired through building, Playz Kids DIY Toy V8 Combustion Engine Model Kit also includes a detailed introduction in the instruction manual. By reading, children will recognize the difference between an electric motor vs. the powerful V8, and learn about different types of combustion engines. Lastly, the introduction delves into the four-stroke cycle through a visual representation of the four steps (Intake, Compression, Power, and Exhaust).
Once children build the kit and read the introduction they will have a full grasp of the science, engineering, and physics that go into this automotive cornerstone. It is never too early for your young mechanic to start learning how a real V8 combustion engine works.
- ✔ LET YOUR CHILDREN GET HANDS ON with the Playz Kids DIY Toy V8 Combustion Engine Model Kit THAT WORKS! This mini replica of a classic four cycle 8 cylinder internal combustion gasoline car engine teaches young minds all about the wonderful world of mechanical engineering in one immersive set that makes the perfect hobbies gift set for adults or kids.
- ✔ INCLUDES EVERYTHING NEEDED TO BUILD: Your child will have a great time building this comprehensive model engine toy! Tinker with the cranks, pulleys, belts, and exhaust valves to make this little gadget come to life right in front of their eyes!
- ✔ REALISTIC MODEL THAT WORKS: Deliver the action of a classic car engine thanks to the powerful pistons and interactive cables! Simply plug the cables to the battery pack distributor and watch the engine fans turn around with real engine sounds.
- ✔ DEVELOP THEIR CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS: Playz Kids DIY Toy V8 Combustion Engine Model Kit will encourage young boys and girls to expand their creativity, think logically, and even refine their motor skills all at once!
- ✔ MAKE THE WORLD OF STEM AMAZING for your children with this intuitive and engaging kit! It makes science, mechanical engineering, and even technology exciting from start to finish! (Requires 3x AA Batteries not included)
User questions & answers
| Question: | How big are they |
| Answer: | I couldn't figure that out either. I don't find it listed anywhere why. I ended up swapping around the cam lobes to match the other side. I appears to be operating correct with way it functions & the spark plug firing. It should have been noted someplace why the cam shaft was different on that side. The only thing I can figure is maybe they are trying to show the way 4 valves per cylinder operate (even though there are only 2). |
| Question: | Is this model able to be disassembled and rebuild multiple times? Or are any parts required to be glued |
| Answer: | Yes it does!! There’s a shaft at the back of it that you can rotate and the rotor moves throughout the cylinder as it would in the actual motor...VERY NEAT LITTLE THING!! I have it as a display in my auto parts store and people love it. |
| Question: | What are the dimensions when built |
| Answer: | It looks like the chrome rotor housing and one side housing are a single piece, and the clear side housing is a separate part that is glued on. It probably can't be removed without destroying it. |
| Question: | Why are the cam lobes all wrong in the directions? I mean on the ome bank, the exhaust and intake valves all open at the same time |
| Answer: | There is no building. It's just a little model of a rotary. Pull it out of the box and enjoy! |
Rotary13B1 - Rotor Housing - Pillow - Gray
Product description
New from Rotary13B1! Rotorheads wanted it, now we've made it! Your Rotary Engine in a huggable squezable plush toy. Our plush toy dimensions are from an actual Rotor Housing on our design table. Whether you own a 12A, 13B, or 20B this plush toy will look great on your couch or garage shelf. * Doubles as a neck pillow too! = )
- Custom Made by : Rotary13B1
- Size: 12.75in x 12in x 3in
- Design is doubled sided, reverse side is printed as well.
- Color: Gray with Black silk-screened details.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is this machine washable |
| Answer: | Yes, Amazon listing the box size is moronic. People want to know the completed size of the model not the size of the box all the parts came in, duh. |
Waterwood Creative Auto Part Model Spinning Rotary Engine KeyChain Key Chain Ring-Titanium
Product description
Specification:
Overall Size: 4 x 3cm/1.57 x 1.18in
Chain Length: 2.5cm/0.98in
Ring Size:
External Diameter: 3.2cm/1.25in
Inner Diameter: 2.7cm/1in
Material: Zinc alloy
Color: Titanium
Net weight: 38g
Package include:
1 x Creative Auto Part Model Keychain
Notice:
The actual item's color maybe slightly different from the pictures shown due to the lighting or computer screens.
- A memorable and collectible keychain, fashion,creative gift for friends and car lovers.
- Ideal companion of your Car keys,bags,cellphones or other wonderful objects.
- Compact design with light weight, high reduction degree and high craftmanship.
- Made of high-grade polished chrome plated alloy, reliable and durable for long term use.
- 3D Miniature Rotary Engine Model, cool gadget to indentify youself as a car fans.
Maycom New HOT Spinning Rotor Keychain Creative Car Fans Favorite Auto Parts Model Matte Engine Rotary Keyring Key Ring Chain Keychain Keyfob 86122-4
Maycom
Product description
SKU:86122-4
Brand:Maycom
Weight:34grams
Material: Zinc Alloy
Size:4*3.7cm
Condition:New
Package:Single OPP Bag
Package includes: 1 x keychain
Body Colour: Matte Silver
Made of beautifully finished chrome and it's the ideal way to show everyone your car of choice.
Precision-tooled articulated joints mean the keyring will flex and sit comfortably in your pocket.
- 3D Miniature Creative Auto Parts Wankel Rotor Model Keychain
- Perfect Gifts For Car Fans and Lovers
- High-Grade Polished Chrome Plated Alloy
- Assembled in Primary Parts Similar to a Real Full Size,Creative design,very fashionable keychains, make you look different
- Small triangular rotor can be rotated when toggled.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do the rotors rotate |
| Answer: | no glue snapped together if you are careful then you should be able to disassemble |
Trends UK Haynes Build Your Own V8 Engine
Product description
An all-new working model of a duel overhead cam V8 Engine. Easily assembled with over 100 parts, includes a working electric motor, light up spark plugs, engine sounds and automatic shut off. Discover how an internal combustion engine works. Construct a fully working model with see through workings and chrome plated plastic trim pieces. Lots of details and an instruction manual with step-by-step diagrams and easy to assemble components. Requires 2 AA batteries (not Included).
- Includes over 100 parts
- Motorized model simulates real motor
- Features ignition and engine sounds and light up spark plugs
- For ages 14 and up
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is this a gas model |
| Answer: | I am not sure, but I think it is an LED light which should last a long time, especially if it is only used occasionally. |
| Question: | I noticed it says "uk" in the name. is that part of the company name, or is it a different engine then in the us |
| Answer: | Dear, we are happy to provide you with a one year warranty. |
| Question: | Some pictures of the box say that it contains over 250 parts, while others say it has over 100 parts. Are there two different versions of this kit |
| Answer: | Yes, all the capitals of the 50 states and major cities of the United States are displayed. |
| Question: | how big and reliable is this engine? and can it be used for anything? say a small go-cart to a full size vehicle |
| Answer: | The globe comes with instruction sheet on how to change the light bulb. It is an easy process, of taking the semi-meridian and globe ball apart and switching the light bulb from the South Pole. Please contact the manufacturer directly so that they can send you a copy of the instruction sheet if you didn't get it. |
Allison Prop Jet Aircraft Engine STEM Plastic Model Kit 1/10 Atlantis Toy and Hobby
Atlantis
Product description
1/10 Scale. This Kit comes with 2 color 8 page instructions, educational booklet, updated decals, and molded in Black, Silver, Blue and Orange. Officially licensed! Over 240 parts A huge model at over 16 inches long. Skill level 3 ages 14 and up
- Made in USA
- Made in the USA Best Seller!
- Features Moving Parts Molded in 4 colors
- STEM included historical booklet detailed instructions
- Very Educational for ages 14 and UP
- Officially Licensed Rolls Royce Heritage Trust
User questions & answers
| Question: | Recommended glue to use |
| Answer: | No, all the parts were there in mine. What parts were missing? Was the box sealed? Mine was shrink wrapped. |
| Question: | Would this be suitable as a gift to an adult to be displayed on a desk |
| Answer: | Yes, it is a single rotor that rotates within the housing. |
| Question: | How many approximate hours to build for a novice |
| Answer: | We would NOT advise to wash this plush toy in the washing machine. |
| Question: | Has anyone else found that the kit was missing numerous parts? Like an entire parts tree |
| Answer: | The finished kit is approx. 12” long, 8“ wide, and 9” tall. |
OWI Robotics Vroom! Stem V8 Model Combustion Engine, Multi
Product description
Vroom vroom! For over one-hundred years The V8 combustion engine has been a part of the rich history of the American automotive industry. With vroom! Stem V8 model combustion engine budding car enthusiasts, ages twelve and up, will have the opportunity to understand the heart of the automobile.
- Includes over 270 pieces
- REPLICA OF A REAL ENGINE - Learn everything you need to know about the heart of a vehicle and how it provides the power for a car to run. Turning your engine on, you will see and hear how a real V8 operates. Instructional manual included. Requires 3 AA batteries (not included).
- Enhances divergent thinking, manual dexterity, and gratifying sense of accomplishment
- The cooling fan spins, pistons fire up and down, light bulbs flick on and off in perfect sequence
- There is no need to worry about pricy gasoline to enjoy the show
User questions & answers
| Question: | How big is the assembled engine |
| Answer: | Contact the seller that there were pieces missing, usually they will send you a new one |
| Question: | need or use glue |
| Answer: | 12hx10wx14l |
| Question: | Is this metal or plastic |
| Answer: | The manuals are written in English. |
| Question: | Does this require painting? Approximately how many hours should it take an adult to put this together |
| Answer: | Extremely cool. I have a collection of model engine kits and this one fits right in. |
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