I just joined the list and am considering buying a completed
Legacy. I make frequent flights from Oklahoma City to Phoenix.
Our Mooney M20J has the range to make the 720 nm trip non-stop with 1-hr
reserve against 25-knot headwinds. I'd like to retain that capability,
but upgrade speed from the Mooney's 150-160 KTAS to 220 KTAS or
better.
Questions:
I see a service ceiling of 18,000' published by Lancair. Is that
a legally binding limitation?
What's time to climb SL to 12,000' and rate of climb through roughly 8,
12, and 16,000' at max weight?
Are the following numbers credible for a 10:1 compression IO-550
with one Light Speed Plasma ignition?
KTAS gph
263 19.8
(flat out)
253 17.1
241 14.5
: :
180 7.8
For a fairly stock IO-550N installation (e.g. 8.5:1) at 8,000', what
numbers would you see LOP, with and without electronic ignition?
Since much of my trip is above 8,000', what would the above performance
numbers be at 12, 16, and 18,000'?
Apart from keeping CHTs cool, what pilot and maintenance techniques
will increase engine life?
How many cylinders would I expect to replace in 2000 hours of flying
careful LOP?
Who does the best pre-purchase inspections? Currently there
appear to be Legacys (Legacies?) for sale in ID, TX, etc.
What time-frame did you guys start seeing problems with Performance
Engines? Any thoughts on Lycon engines?
--
Craig in Oklahoma City