Hey guys. Need a little help. I am building a 24% Pilot Edge 540. I am installing a DLE35ra on the plane. I have a few questions regarding the cowl. the plane has a tunnel for a pipe, but I am not installing a pipe, for now. My local hobby dealer suggested closing off the area to the pipe tunnel. What do you think? Also, I know I need to create venting in the cowl so the engine doesn't run hot. I have been advised that I should create 2x to 3x the amount of exit as there is inlet. I have been struggling with a design and look (I want it clean and neat). I found a good basic pattern that I like, but would like your input on the placement on the cowl. What do you guys think? I worked on it for a couple hours last night, and I kind of like it....looks a little like a transformer or Jason ....

The holes on the bottom are for the exhaust pipes and from what I am calculating, my inlet is about 2.5sq-in and my exit holes, with the amount I have is 6.4sq-in. I am not calculating the area where the engine hub is, cause with the spinner, there is only about 2mm gap.

I'm building the same plane for a buddy, here is what I will be doing. Where I put a black check is good, red check I wouldn't cut it. I would just open the rear area all the way for better exit and I like your plan for under the cylinder. Dont close up the canister tunnel. You will notice some slots inside the fuse in the tunnel that can be opened up as well. Cut the covering on those and you will be good. Also you will need more air over the cylinder by making a few cut outs in the front like I'm showing you in first pic. I just finished a Pilot 330 30cc and its very similar, same engine and cut outs with no issues.

Here are the slots im talking about in the canister tunnel. Open them for more exit.

hey gapple12, thanks for the info....sorry I didn't see this till now, I've been running my but off with work. I pretty much did what you mentioned, but cut slots at the back instead of completely opening it up.....

Great, glad I could help. Here is what I did on the one I just finished. Runs real cool.