ORIGINAL: roncoleman
Here's my opinion on the engine issue. Install an adjustable engine mount.
Install a 32-36 and fly it for a while. Then install a 45-53 and fly it for a while.
More than likely you will like and stay with the lager engine. Remember you
are talking about a sport "pattern" type of aircraft. If pattern performance is
what you will be looking for when it's all said and done? Why knock yourself
out trying to do the pattern with 32 when you can get the performance you
will need from a lager engine? I like pattern flying myself and I know a 32-36
is not going to do it for me. A strong 40 is as low as I would go and a 50-53
the max. for this type of aircraft. If you just want a good flying sport plane
then a 32-36 should be the ticket. I wonder how well would it fly with a Saito
.56? JMHO
Ron
This is pretty much a waste of time, because I have been though this before. On planes sized about this I prefer a .40. With a larger engine it will be too fast without using a huge low pitch prop, which has the problem of nicking the ground on a hard landing. Plus it will be nose heavy and just plain heavy after adding tail weight. On an older design the modern .40s will be too heavy, I don't think Webra makes a .40 any more, though a used one is a possiblity. Maybe with high nitro my K&B would be the ticket. Though I think the HP has more power.