Well, I've had heaps of experience running methonal, just not in Datto. My previous hobby was flying RC model aeroplanes and they use methonal as the fuel base.

"Metho" is a cheap brew of methonal and ethanol (mostly ethanol). Its no where near as good as pure methanol as a fuel and I'm pretty sure is heavier and denser. So don't use metho as a substitue.

You can purchase methanol at most fuel supply depots. Ring around. I haven't bought it for a couple years now but used to regulary fill my 20L drums for under $25. Yep, thats the same price as unleaded on some days!

I was suprised to hear Datman55 mention is was extremely corrosive. I can't say it isn't because I don't know for sure, but a quick look at my collection of motors would indicate otherwise. I have never seen any form of corrosion on one of these model engines. They are mostly aluminimum, with bronze or brass slipper bearings, steel valves and roller bearings for cams. Some parts are chromed, but only for show.

The 4-strokes produce 1.5 to 2.0 HP for every cubic inch displacement.

There are also 2-strokes, wankels (rotaries) and supercharged four-strokes. I think fuel injection is becoming the in thing too now.