When it comes to EDF vs. props, dollar for dollar, amp for amp, the prop wins every time. So to get similar performance, a larger outlay of cash is required. To compound matters, you're taking on a twin

Schuebler fans and Lehner motors are very good products but, as you are discovering, quite expensive. A good, lower price alternative to the Schuebler fans is the Wemotek line. Likewise with motors, the MEGA line is good as well as numerous other brands. For ESC's, Castles are hard to beat.

Perhaps you should approach Robert Wagoner at the Electric Jet Factory (www.efj.com) or Marcos at www.warbirds-rc.com.

There are many more EDF'ers in the jet forum at www.ezonemag.com. One of them has probably built the very plane your talking about.