Rick,

 

You didn't indicate whether the flaps are the original design top hinge or modified bottom hinged construction.  One half flaps on the top hinge type would only be about 9 to 10 degrees in flight.  Also not indicated was the quantity of fuel in the wing tanks and the size of the elevator trim tab.  As a result, it is difficult to respond to the issues.

 

It may well be that the elevator trim tab is too small or too short on travel range or maybe other issues.

 

As a comparison for you, when flying solo, I typically burn down the header tank to about one-half quantity and allow at least 6 gallons total, preferably about 8 to 10, in the wing tanks combined for landing (this is with no baggage).  Anything more in the header tank combined with less in the wing tanks results in marginal remaining travel in the elevator for the flair in landing.  It is just about to the limit of its travel range.  And the stick is way back in my stomach (I'm not fat) which does not feel very good.  Usually I will carry about 12 pounds in the rear of the baggage area when flying solo.  It just feels better in the flair not having the elevator nearly to the stops and the stick all the way back.  

 

If you should decide to return to the spring trim system, the geared wheel trim mechanism (Dick Reichel) is a "must" over the original trim lever.  And it is much safer and faster to operate than an electric servo trim tab.  I have flown all three types, and for the 235 airframe, I believe it is the best of the three.

 

Gary Edwards

LNC2 N21SN

235/320