Curious about using a Constant Speed Propeller on low Horsepower Engine on Zenith Planes

Does anyone have any knowledge of someone using the AirMaster AP420 Constant Speed Propeller (http://www.airmasterpropellers.com/wab487.html ) on a lower horse-powered engine like a Jabiru 2200 with one of the Zenith planes?  I plan to build a CH-750, but I am reluctant to use the Jab 2200 at 85HP on a STOL type plane of this kind.  I know Zenith has specified that the use of engines between 80 and 125 HP are perfectly safe for the CH-750, but I’m mostly concerned about having sufficient power on take off and climbs.  If a constant speed propeller was used to aid during these critical moments, I was thinking it could make things safer and at the same time increase your fuel economy and range seriously over using just the Jab 3300 by itself.  I would be curious to hear any stories, hear-say and firsthand knowledge on this subject if anyone has some info.  I’m hoping some of our Australian and New Zealander buddies who are more familiar with both a Jabiru and the AirMaster may have something to contribute since they are both built in their part of the world. 

Jay Parker

 

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Jay,
I don't think the C/S prop will help you a lot except cost more and weigh about 20 lbs. more. There isn't a great speed differential between climb and cruise. A ground adjustable set for good climb won't suffer too much at cruise. You will need to cruise a bit higher RPM for the same airspeed than you would with a C/S. I think the ground adjustable would be a good trade off. Have you considered a different engine than the Jabiru? http://www.ulpower.com/
For the 20 lbs weight the C/S prop would cost, you could have an engine of 107hp.

Louie

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