The factory settings are a broad range starting point. One that usually allows you to get the engine running so you can do a proper tuning later.

As for altitude tuning, my method is as good as you are going to get. You are tuning for maximum performance with a bit of leaway for the prop unloading in flight. What else can you do to tune for alititude??

As for overheating, there are a number of issues. Tuning, which I covered, wrong prop, and poor air curcliation come to mind. I am addressing the tunning issue.

Look, this post is in the beginners forum. I wouldn't claim it is the absolute answer to anyones tuning problems. It will give you an engine that you can depend on. It may not be that absolutely maximum performance you can get from the engine, but it will get you up in the air with a minumum of fumbling around on the ground. It will keep the engine running for the full flight and will give you an engine that will respond when needed. All of this is based on an assumption that the engine that can run correctly with a proper tuning.

If you have suggestions on how to go about tuning an engine differently than what I posted, please contribuite them. Otherwise, please PM me with your response.

Don