I'm just about to start on a Continental (the Bill Sawyer 'Laser Continental' kit).  I was originally going to use something like an old Enya 45-I in it, but I just realised I've got a shiny, new, barely-run-in 40XZS just sitting in a box doing nothing.  Has anyone got any thoughts on using the 40 in a model this size (55" span, 570 sq.in)?  I suspect the 40XZS is just as strong as the old .45, and has the further advantage of a 1/4-28 shaft versus the M7 one on the .45 (a minor issue involving a really cool needle-nose spinner I want to use).

Cheers
Steve

Thanks Pete, I sense that you have a slight leaning towards the 40XZS.   Looks like that's the way to go, not that I needed much convincing.  Like you, I've only bench-run mine, but was most impressed.  A very classy engine, as my friend who distributes/collects/fixes/designs/builds engines put it.

How much difference did the extra head gasket make?

Steve
        I have run the 40XZS in an Oriental, 55in span ( 550 sq in ), motor ran well after a bit of sorting.
Found it was overcooling with the head stuck out in the breeze in the Oriental,may not be a problem with a full
cowl,5% nitro, 23% oil,( 50/50 Klotz & Castor ) stock motor as it came out of the box with a Glow Devil 300 plug,
RSM T/Muffler, APC 11x4, RPM on ground  9,900 to 10,000, used 95cc of fuel for a 6min 30sec flight ( FAI rules).
The thing that brought it to life was using the APC 11x4 prop.Uniflow tank( No muffler pressure, but has a restrictor
on the uniflow vent) motor was riching up at the end of the flight,the restrictor solved this.

Paul Allen
OZ

Found it was overcooling with the head stuck out in the breeze in the Oriental ........
Paul Allen
OZ

Quick and dirty fix for a suspected over cooled engine - just roll some O rings down the barrel to block the air from flowing over and through the fins.

Infinitely adjustable and cheap with permanent modifications anywhere!

Cheers.