The AP, does run pretty good modified also. I found it cant take all the mod's that can be done to the norvels, but you can make the Ap .061 run pretty durn good with out too much effort. I Drill or File an airbleed path into the carb positioned at Idle, they do ok then. I found a good use for that wire that holds the muffy on.... I use them to make the small orientation pins for the sleeve in my VA's, perfect material for that.
Im starting to like the AP's. BUT, I can see why they are not consider to be a "good" engine.
I believe it is because of Quality Conrol. I havent seen any of them that have good part fits out of the box. I hate the crankshaft in them. I prefer a removable prop stud/screw, that is just a personal preference though. For the price, I cant complain too loud I suppose.