LEXL Engine size vs pilot weight

[Mr.always.fix.it]

Has anyone compiled HP vs Pilot size for the LEXL I am currently 195lbs and live at an altitude of 1300ft. Has anyone complied performance of different hp vs weight of pilot?

I am currently doing the research prior to my build so I can start acquiring an engine and other components

[Kamcoman77]

Les Homan has many videos on YouTube about flying his XL with several different engines. He is a fairly heavy man, and I think he recommends a 37 or 45 hp 1/2 VW or the Verner 3-cylinder radial. I weigh 225 and have a self-built 37hp 1/2 VW that I spent about $3300 on, including the prop. My altitude is between 900 and 1100 feet MSL (Atlanta area). Hummel Engines (Scott Casler) pricing is fair. Scott is probably the best source for 1/2 VW's unless you build one yourself. The Verner is somewhere between $7000 and $9000 plus prop, but it offers the best overall performance of any engines tested on Legal Eagles (so far).

[Mr.always.fix.it]

Kamcoman77 Thank you for the information and for the reply. I definitely may build a half VW for my build after reading your post. Thanks again.

[Kamcoman77]

I bought a used, clearanced case from Scott Casler that had the proper oil passages plugged. It was bored for 90.5 or 92mm cylinders. I also bought a 78mm stroke, 92mm bore, balanced rotating assembly and Scott's prop hub. I substituted Deves Swedish steel rings for the ones that came with the pistons from Scott. I bought a head cut for 90.5 or 92mm cylinders from eBay, and cut, cc'd, and welded it into the two heads needed. Engle W-100 cam and most small parts from J-Bugs or AA performance. Bought Mikuni knock-off carbs from eBay (Chikuni) but didn't like the fuel flow so bought real Mikuni 8074 26mm carbs from Summit Racing. Trying several types of ignition systems on my test stand. Currently running a French CDI unit that has a programmable spark advance curve (via smartphone). Engine starts and runs nicely but only have about 5 hours on it and have not tried full throttle yet.

[Mr.always.fix.it]

Kamcoman77 That is a good looking engine. I appreciate the additional info on the engine. Let me know how the French ignition works out. I am thinking about using the 009 distributor with the locking clamp to hold advance and a magneto as the backup ignition. Thanks again for the information I can’t wait to see your bird in the air.