I got 15,600 out of a piped 55 with a macs pipe and header on it. It was with an 11x6 or 7 apc, i dont remember which, and 30% nitro. That is pretty good numbers for a 150$ motor. If money is an issue you may want to look at the magnum 52. It is lighter than the 55, handles high nitro well, and loves to scream. Of course all this is relative, none of these engines make power like a jett or nelson, but can be made to run respectable numbers. I am pretty sure my magnum will break 15000 on a pipe with a 12x4 apc, should turn a 9x8 nicely.