Re: Cross wind landings

[Mi Vida Loca]

At 08:54 PM 12/4/98 -0700, you wrote:
>Occasionally, during a cross wind landing, my upwind wing will rise quite
>high leaving me on the downwind main and nose wheel. Normally I just push
>the yolk forward and "ride it out". I've started wondering, however, if
>there is a better technique. My concern in this situation, of course, is a
>major gust coming along while I'm "riding it out". I've never felt like I
>was losing control but still, what about a strong gust? Is it mechanically
>possible for the downwind wing to hit the runway resulting in loss of
>control? Would it be better to push forward and steer into the raised wing?
>A year ago I added the main gear extenders to raise the tail. A noticeable
>difference in ground handling and takeoff roll. Still, the upwind wing will
>rise in a strong cross wind. The last time this happened was last week, 40
>degrees and 16 knots. How do the rest of you handle your Coupes?
>Jim
>N-87112

Jim,
What is happening is that as the upwind wing swings around it picks up speed, hence it starts flying. The down wind wing is retreating and loosing lift. Do not hit the brakes for any reason, could be a disaster. Also do not push the nose over it just makes you wheelbarrow more. Just ride it out. If you don't get excited you can handle a 45 kt direct X wind. X-Winds are a way of life here in Texas. The single biggest tip I can give you is do not touch down until you have gotten rid of every last possible bit of forward speed. Hold the wheel back in your gut and hold it off as long as possible. If your tail is up level there is no need to push forward which only decreases control when the mains are on the ground. If you have a really good feel for you coupe you can steer every so slightly to the up wind wing which will load it forcing it down a little quicker. DO not make a major correction. It is pressure only, not a real turn of the wheel. Don't try it unless your coupe is an extension of yourself. Hang in there (no pun intended)





Dave
41 Charlie
Dave's Ercoupe Page
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