RE: Looking for a decent engine
Rated at 16K?????????
Every "SPORT" engine gives you a HP rating at some RPM. Depending on how flat the torque curve is, it gives you a range of props for maximum performance. But you DON"T want to prop the engine (the flying prop) to turn that on the ground, because when you are in the air and the engine unloads, then you will be operating above the rpm with the maximum power output. For a sport engine with a normal muffler, you should start with a prop that loads the engine to a value 1 to 3 K under the peak HP RPM, depending somewhat on the timing of the engine and how clean your airframe is. Also, set the engine a bit more on the rich side, so it will have the fuel it needs when it unloads.
Racing engines don't normally give HP rating, but we are working with something in the neighborhood of 7 HP/CI
To get more out of a sport motor, you can change the timing and add a tuned exhaust or magic muffler. But you will be giving a reliable idle and ease of operation.