I don't know where the bad rep comes on this engine, especially on an Avistar or any trainer. We have had MANY newbies come out to learn to fly with Avistar/40LA combos and they're a great match. Very easy to start and very reliable.

I would consider a 46FX only if you see moving the engine to another plane later on. What I see at our field is people who love their trainers and bring them out from time to time just to putt around or to teach friends and kids.