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Messages - slk23

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Hangar Flying / LOW RPM to save fuel

« on: May 21, 2006, 10:43:49 PM »

If I'm just out for a sunset flight I lean for taxi, go full rich for takeoff, then reduce power to 75% and lean once I'm above TPA. I use the 48 rule (MP + RPM/100 = 48 = 75%). I use 2200 - 2300 RPM which is still surprisingly fast. I flew 1.6 hours yesterday and burned 5, maybe 5.5 gal. with my O-235 Vari-Ez.

If I'm heading out on a real X-C, I climb WOT until at cruising altitude (usually around 10K). I start leaning when power drops below 75% as MP goes down with altitude.

Hangar Flying / VariEze Alternator & O-235

« on: May 10, 2006, 12:54:02 PM »

I have the what I think is the old version of that alternator on my Lyc. 235 -- it's belt driven and produces a little more power (12 amps?) due to higher RPM. The weight is low so CG is not a problem (I don't have an electric starter or flywheel).

The model I have, and I think the same applies to the SD-8, is a two wire alternator (dynamo?). One drawback is the power output drops drastically when the RPMs go down, such as on final approach to land. If you have lights on the system voltage can get so low you can't use the radio :x The three wire alternators maintain higher output at low RPM.

Hangar Flying / More pictures

« on: May 10, 2006, 12:47:12 PM »

I have a few pictures at:

http://www.jkearney.com/~slk/Columbia_Canards/index.html