RE: DA50 in a pattern plane?
Magne, the ZDZ 40 you have is the "F3A", correct?
For gas, it appears the only design that is going to work for pattern is rear carb-rear exhaust. I hope to work on putting together a gas pattern model next year, and so far this appears to be the only engine that fits the requirements. With the proper header and a widebody-type fuse, the side-exhaust 3W 28i might fit under a pattern cowl.
I have not scratch built before, but if you have plans I am motivated enough that I'd try my hand at it, especially if I could find somebody to laser cut the ribs and any curvy formers... Actually there is a gentleman named Dave at Littlebirdz who I believe could cut them for a reasonable cost.