Abstract: A model airplane engine uses a heated backplate to replace the conventional, non-heated backplate of the engine. The backplate incorporates a heater, which is electrically, temporarily energized during the start cycle of the engine. The higher temperature of the engine results in vaporization of the fuel prior to its entry into the combustion cylinder thus preventing crankcase and cylinder flooding and allowing easy starts during operation in cold weather, and also makes possible the use of inexpensive low-volatility heavier fuels, rather than special, expensive fuels.