Sorry to hear about all the problems you had with the motor. That sucks.

I just bought a Rascal Forty last week, and had it in the air in two days. I'm flying it with a Saito .56, and I love it. On the recommended rates, it's a real *****cat. I set up higher rates on it, and now have a very relaxing, but very capable confidence-inspiring aerobat. I can get plenty of vertical penetration out of it, and I can even snap roll on high rates (not possible with Sig's recommended rates). I've done a few spins with mine, too, and it's proven itself to be an honest airplane.

On landing, I just cut power on base, and then as I approach the last 5 feet on final, I slowly apply full up elevator (low rates), and the Rascal assumes a perfect three-point attitude. I fly off grass, so ground handling is more subdued than it would be on asphalt, but I have had no problems in this department. You should keep in mind, however, that this is a tailwheel airplane, and you will have a large left turning tendency during high-power manuevers such as takeoff and steep climbs. It's nothing a little right rudder can't counterract.

I've only had one major problem thus far, and that was that my elevator hinges pulled out in flight. This caused a major nose-down pitching moment, but I was able to make a safe landing without damaging the airplane. Just be sure to put a couple drops of thin CA on the elevator and aileron hinges before you fly! This seems to be a freak occurence, but better safe than sorry.

I, too, found engine mounting to be a real bear. It's doable, but does require some fenagling. Just take your time (measure twice, cut once), and everything should work out great!

I look forward to flying my Rascal Forty for a loooooong time. It's quickly becoming my new favorite plane.