Randy is correct about the possibility of dragging the rudder on take-off
with the 235/320 ventral fin combination. I have done that.
Full fuel, with co-pilot and baggage, so aft CG, zero flap
take-off. Didn't know that it had occurred until I got home and was
cleaning the bugs off the plane, and there it was. So, no more zero flap
take-offs as the plane wants to jump off the runway at a high angle of
attack. I typically use 10 degrees of flaps for take-off where it tends to
lift off more graciously.
Also, the construction of the ventral fin: constructed of foam (three
1/2" pieces microed together or as Randy did, one solid piece) 1.5
inches wide at the top where it attaches to the bottom of the fuselage, and
tapered to .5 inch at the bottom of the fin with a rounded bottom edge.
Gary Edwards
LNC2
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 3:23
AM
Subject: [LML] Re: p-factor takeoff in
235/320
Doug,
3 more pics.
Note I added 2.5" full length to the
rudder trailing edge also added to the bottom to match the ventral fin. Also
added a few inches to the rudder counter balance length which allowed less
weight for balance.
I used pink home depot foam for the rudder and ventral
fin mod. I went 2 bid on glass so it is light. If I were to do it again I
would have gone 4 bid. Airplane needed tail weight anyway...
I have plenty
of rudder on initial take off power.
I have the 320/360 gear so my airplane
is a little taller. Some guys have scuffed the rudder on take off and landing
with the original 235 gear legs with the ventral fin mod so keep that in
mind....
FWIW..
Randy
Snarr
N694RS