I just purchased a Great Planes 160 size Ultimate Bipe. I'm trying to decide on an engine. Some say the DA-50 is too much engine. I want to fly 3D and I'm asking what engines you guys have used in these planes and what kind of success you have had. Has anyone used a 50 size engine with a 3 blade prop to tame it down a bit?

Corry,

Congratulations on the smart choice on the Ultimate. A 50cc size engine is the most popular choice for an engine on this plane. I've had two of the planes, both powered by DL50's. Vertical is excellent and the combo is great for 3D. The airframe has no problem handling the power. If you haven't read through the thread on the plane, you should, there are a few mod's you should make to the plane, regardless of the engine size. The main one is the upper wing joiner, a couple of people have lost the plane because of the joiner breaking. I just made one out of clear pine.

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_3240915/tm.htm

Chuck

I'll second what Chuck said. I just maidened mine with a Quadra 40 for power. It is a good sport plane, but underpowered for 3D. The looong thread is worth reading. 50cc is by far the favorite choice for powering this plane for 3D.

Agree with Chuck too. Had a DA-50 on mine. This is one of the best planes I have flown to date. The DA has a lot of power for this plane but the key items are power and weight. It is not too heavy with a 50cc engine. You still have very low wing loading. Now as far as power - you can easily manage your throttle.

A 3 blade prop would be cool but the $$$ were just to much, plus the spinner.....

yep, go with DA50 or DL50. Had a DL on mine and the power was great..If I had another I wouldnt even consider a different setup