Top Flite Beechcraft Bonanza engine options?
 

Hello. I'm considering engine choices for a new kit build. Is there a 4 stroke twin that will fit inside the cowl without cutting holes for the cylinder head covers? I would likely consider the Gemini FT-160. If that doesn't fit, I would likely go electric.

Anyone here have one with one of these two engine options?

Thanks.

The FT-160 is 7.72 inches wide. Take a ruler and measure your space.
Weight: 38.8 oz (1100 g)
Length: 4.72 in (120 mm)
Width: 7.72 in (196 mm)
Height: 3.15 in (80 mm)
FT-160 Specs

The cowl is approx 7 inches wide at best.

I am planing on using a RCV 120SP on mine, it will swing a scale three blade prop.

The 160 won't fit without cutting the cowl. I built one for a customer a couple years back and we put a Saito 125 in her and the cowl had to be cut, but I wouldn't go smaller than the 125.

But at what RPM will it swing that scale prop? The engine has a 2 to 1 gear reduction to the prop. So remember, whatever rpm your prop is doing, the piston is doing twice that.

The engine prop seed is up to 6000, I will be using a APC 15.75x13 prop.

Doesn't that engine have a 2 to 1 gear ratio? If so, then to get 6000 rpm from the prop the engine itself must turn 12,000 rpm. I'm not familiar with those engines, can they do that?

Checking the manufacturers specs on the engine, it gives 6000 rpm as the MAXIMUM prop speed. I wouldn't bet the farm on keeping it at that rpm for extended periods.

You're also looking at a top speed of around 65 MPH. Sounds OK to me but the proof will be in the flying.