ORIGINAL: Bax
ORIGINAL: peso
An interesting plane to study is the Cessna 337B. This plane has two identical engines and props. When flown with one engine only it has better performance with the rear engine than the front one.
See link
[link]http://www.skymaster.org.uk/perform.asp[/link]
I think I read that the Cessna Skymaster has better engine-out performance with the rear engine running because the airflow pattern happens to be a little bit better. The fuselage does about as good a job as possible to give the rear prop a clean airflow, and there are no struts, fuselage, etc. to get in the way of the airflow aft.
Even though it's not a 'hot' performer, I've always liked the Skymater.
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What could be "cleaner" than nothing in front, like the front engine?
The difference in performance front only to rear only is more due to the stuff aft of the front prop, than ahead of the rear prop. The increased drag of air going aft from the front prop isn't there with only the rear motor going.
My push-pull Kadet, at 13 pounds, will fly equally well front engine only or rear engine only. Two 40 FPs, which aren't the most powerful..
The rear motor MUST have a cooling air scoop. Even uncowled it would overheat.