I have an LA 46 that has seen service in 4 planes. Its currently pulling a restored Nexstar. The engine has always been easy to start and reliable. I found the key was not UNDER propping it. Sure it won't run a 10x4 at 14,000, but it will run an 11x5 at 11,000, which is more than enough to service the trainer its on. And it will idle at 2000 rpm with that same 11x5 prop. With a 12 oz tank at 1/4 throttle, I can probably keep the Nexstar in the air for 40 minutes.

Like any other engine, its only as good as its intended purpose.

Brad