Mike,
The ESC is a Schulze Elektronik gmbh Future-32.40 (6 to 32 cells NiCd-NiMH 40/53A).
You are right! The ESC can handle 40 amps.
It looks like any of the props will get me to altitide +-600 ft. on launch and return from +-150 ft. about 2 more times.
I guess I'll use the 15/12 for flight and the 17/13 for show.
The cowl has three forward facing vents of 4 sq. in. each and two exits of 6 sq.in. each. Do you think that is adequate? I could add one more (non-scale) exit in the bottom of the cowl if absolutely necessary.
Would LiPo cells work in this application? Can you give me some indication of performance improvement?

You have restored my desire to finish the project.
Thanks a bunch,

Jim