Just my two cents worth
watch your Manifold Pressure, keep it within the engines operating range...ie..Mustang 50 inches on take off....reduce to 46 inches for climb out, this is also MAX. Continuous MP...42 inches Cruise
Prop Pitch RPM, 95-100% max only on take off and only for 5 minutes in Combat, use 75% for cruise power, reduce in dives or you will over-speed the engine, then it is Kaput!...ie..Spitfire 3000 Rpm on take off and Combat 5 minutes max...2850 Rpm on climb out....2650 Rpm Max Continuous
Radiators Full open on take off and in Combat
Mixture adjust as altitude increases...Lower air density equals less fuel needed in the combustion chamber
The engine instruments are your friend...Please understand how they work and you will save yourself some frustration
For general info....I am licensed and certified F.A.A. A & P as well as T.C. AME M-1/ S ratings.....Grease Monkey for those who don't know.