[AJCoholic]

I dont think a little (and it looks pretty small) gap at TDC is going to do anything. I didnt notice on the 2 Evolution 26cc's I had if this was the case but I have had other gasoline engines where there was a small amount of space between the piston and exhaust - also due to the way the piston was machined for clearance.

I would run the engine, and see how it performs VS the others you have. If it turns the same prop/rpm dont worry about it as it certainly wont hurt the engine. If it isnt performing as it should, send it back under warranty.

I can give you my rpm figures if you want to compare to what I got in testing.

AJC

[cf-drg]

Here's a couple of more photo's that explain everything......

[RAMJET]

I know the smallest leak in anything on a 2 stroke can caues a real problem .even a bit of weezing through a base gasket .the zdz will run with base gasket problems and strong but the engine will overheat badly and the waranty may end there .can't you check with the manufacturer to see if this is normal .hate to see them say you should have sent it in when you knew there was a problem.I am sure there help desk can tell you .Roger