I can’t comment on the value of the large tail, as I have a small tail because several small tail fliers said they didn’t know they had a problem and when I asked about the (aligning hinges on) elevators, one of the earlier (well known now gone) support people at Lancair said to put full length (each side) piano hinges for a stronger / smoother / well aligned operation. This could mitigate problems experienced with the small tail. I don’t know as I ain’t flying yet but I do have expensive full length piano hinges on the elevators. It is indeed smoothe operating!

Jim

Posted for T Brand <tbrandetc@hotmail.com>:





Would appreciate some opinions as to whether or not the MKII tail has proven 

its importance and safety for the 320 series planes. Read three reports from 

old (1995+) Lancair Mail Letters from pilots (whose names would be familiar 

to readers) stating the change to the larger tail was not necessary and that 

they were happy with the original tail size. There has been more than enough 

time to confirm or challenge the necessity of upgrading to the MKII horizontal 

stabilizer.

I also read Marv's-and others- description of the problems aligning hinges, 

redoing ribs and installing trim systems when adding the early version of the 

MKII horizontal stabilizer to fuselages/kits delivered in the early 1990.

I am in a position where I can build either way. Would greatly appreciate 

hearing flying and building experience to support one design over the other. 

Mr.'s Russell, Shattuck,..have you changed you minds?

Tom Brand