Hi Guys,

I'm getting to the stage in the construction of my B-17 where I need to make a decision regarding powerplants for it. I originally was (am) leaning towards the RCV 90 glow 4cycle for several reasons:

1. Can swing scale 16 inch 3 bladed props
2. Is fully enclosed by the cowls.

I'm having second thoughts though, mainly because I've never even seen one of these engines run, nor do I know anyone who has. I've heard about problems with vibration, (which is obviously to be avoided in a 4 engine plane), and problems providing adequate cooling within a cowl.

So I'm left with a dilemma. Probably the most reliable engine for this plane would be a Zenoah 26, but they would be unsightly sticking out of the cowls in several places (exhaust, carb, and cylinder head) however they would swing scale props. Traditional 4cycle glow engines (YS or OS 90's) would fit in the cowls better than the gas engines, although the cylinder heads would protrude somewhat, but they can't handle scale props. I know many of you will shake your heads, but scale diameter 3 bladed props really ad to the character of the B-17, and I am loth to forgo them.

I'd really be interested in your collective wisdom on this subject.