I had a great time with the Flash at BITW last weekend. A total surprise to me to win best turbine. I'm really lovin this jet! I also used BVM heat blanket on the top of the pipe at the rear and on the stab secured with aluminum tape. I didn't use the bypass or cut any holes in the fuse. After about 12 flights with the Merlin I have no heat issues. You can lay your hand on the fuse after a hard run and it is only warm. Darcy Wingo has the same setup on his Flash powered by a Super Eagle with about 80 flights and zero issues. We pulled his stab off after about 25 flights to check for any heat related issues and all looked perfect.