Miro,
As you probably know, your airframe was
originally designed for the Lycoming 320 engine series. So many folks have put
Lycoming 360s in these airframes that they are now almost universally knows as
Lancair 360s. There is NO difference in the airframe, it’s still the one
designed for the 320. Don’t discount an O-320 or IO-320 in your engine choices.
I have an O-320 on mine and find that it has plenty of power, is well balanced
and incredibly efficient. The larger, heavier engines will give you a bit better
climb but only a slightly faster cruise at the cost of at least another gph of
fuel. As a matter of fact, if I could set up the race, I would bet that I would
be faster in my 320 than any 360. (I’d set it up to be a long race and I’d go
non-stop whereas the 360 would need to stop for fuel). There is nothing wrong
with the 360 engines in this airframe. It’s just that you shouldn’t exclude the
320. Depending on your mission profile, it could be a better fit.
I have an MT two blade prop on mine and am quite
satisfied with it. In general, a 3 blade prop will give you a slightly better
static thrust (slightly shorter t.o. and maybe a little better initial climb)
the 2 blade will be slightly more efficient in cruise giving you a slightly
better TAS and more efficiency. Just a guess, but I think that many people who
choose a 3 blade prop do it just for looks. IMHO that’s not really a good
criteria. Just something else to consider.
Bill Harrelson
N5ZQ 320 2,150 hrs
N6ZQ IV 200 hrs.