I'm working on a GP Super Stearman and am wanting to go to my first gas engine. So I have been looking hard at Birelli and Copperhead sites and others for an engine that would work on this plane, and of course would like to end up with an engine that could be used in a future plane as well. My better judgement says I should stick with a 26 size gas engine for this plane, but I'm really wanting a 42 to 46 size that could be used in a future plane. Weight doesn't seem to be the issue, but prop size and too much thrust on the Stearman are a bit worrisome. GP says weight on the plane should be 14.5 to 15.5 and wingspan on top is 71".

Would a lightweight 42 to 46 size gas engine be too much on this plane?