RE: Which plane to use to start in SSC?
I agree with Kirk, I like the Magnum XL too, but it has a finicky carb (the OS LA has its share of problems too....) which is also a little bit more damage-prone since it is not RNV. But the Mag XL is a nice running engine. I only hesitated to recommend it due to the carb. But then the LA is not a free ride either, it has some carb and backplate issues too. if you have some local fliers, check in with them and what they are using and you might want to go the same way so you can benefit from their experience and knowledge.