Dico:
Someone told me that the "service ceiling" is defined as point at which the aircraft, at full power, cannot maintain
100 ft/min climb.
Another someone mentioned that the IV-P was limited in altitude by engine parameters. If that is correct, then each
aircraft would probably vary in max altitude by builders skill and technique in building.
Finally, he who builds the lightest plane with the minimum accessary drag and the tightest cowling, might be the winner.
..........sounds like it might be an interesting competition.
Regards, Bill Hogarty