Have spent hours reading several post regarding the right choice for an engine in the Christian Eagle. Taking into account limited funds, I have narrowed down my choices and listed my concerns for each gas motor. Comments and past experience on any of these engines would be greatly appreciated. My main objectives are to keep cost down, ease of installation, easy starting engine, and having enough power to get out of trouble if needed. 3D flying is not a requirement. Have several glow engines, this will be my first gas engine. I've basically narrowed it down to the Fuji and FPE.

1. Fuji 50EI.

Pros: fits perfectly. cost. GP recommends this motor.
Cons: Heavy motor, Chief aircraft website says this motor is good for scale flying, not aerobatics. I have read several post that this motor flies the CE great though. Need pitts style muffler?

2. FPE 3.2

Pros: Smoke muffler included. Cost
Cons: Is it lacking power at 4hp?

3. BME 50

Pros: performance motor? plenty of power.
Cons: cost. No firewall mount. Need to purchase muffler and mount.

4. 3W42

Pros: Performance motor
Cons: Not a perfect fit. Cost. need muffler and engine stand offs.

I had a DA-50 in mine. This was a good choice but still was not unlimited on this bird. Flew about 90 mph straight and level but lost speed in the vertical. Its a lead sled. Mine came out at 19lbs and I build as light as it can be. With that said I think you need to save a little more money. The FPE @ 4hp will suck, the Fuji follows. The Fuji is a good motor for a scale app but on this you may find it lacking. The 3W is too small so that leaves the BME which is slightly below the DA in performance. Do yourself a big favor, bite the bullet and get a better motor 50-60cc class. Whatever your choice is I wish you the best of luck and happy flying!

I know cost is important to you, but FYI, I have a Saito 300 twin on my GP Pitts (same thing) and it flys it with authority. It balanced perfectly and I use the stock tank. It flys for about 15-18 mins and swings a 20-10 with no problem (no holes any where in the cowl too!!). I have the GP C. Eagle too and will put the same motor in it...I just love the power and sound.

Depends on your type of flying. I've got a DA50 in mine, balanced perfectly, weight is 18 lbs., and it is a good matchup. Unlimited vertical? What's the point? Mine goes upstairs vertcally as far as I can see what its doing even though it might slow a bit. Good thing you're not interested in 3D because this is NOT a 3D bird. It is really a rather mediocre aerobatic plane compared to the all out aerobatic ships like Extras, Edges, and Ultimates. If you enjoy a great looking airplane that gets a lot of attention and will do some fun sport aerobatics it is fine. I'm happy with that since I have other planes for the other stuff.

I've seen good performance on this airplane with the Zenoah G62's and they are cheaper. Just not my brand because they're old tech, heavy, and have less power than the DA. Not to get into another engine brand war here since most guys swear by whatever they've spent money on.