It depends on the type of the propeller installed on the plane. I will have to get the game to know more and to tell you exactly.
But if you mess with the pitch & throttle in order to keep the RPM gauge needle in a desired location you shouldn't blow the engine.
There was that nice Spit video from AA for FSX which explained how this works very nicely. It should be a mandatory viewing for all those wanting to fly with complex engine management.
EDIT: Also (I am guessing here) rapid throttle movements are not desired.
