I have been on the same mission -- trying to get some additional useful load. My M-10 weighs in at over 1020 lbs empty, and I keep thinking of new gadgets and gizzmos that I want to install. I removed the wheel pants for a weight reduction (and also because my prop came within about an inch of the nose wheel pant- a little too close for comfort!). Nothing scientific, but I THINK I lost about 4 mph -- i.e. noticable.
It seems that most weight reduction ideas cost a fair amount of money. Alternator, a good idea anyway, for the heavy generator -- and a lightweight starter. The bulkheads at the back of the cabin seem a good target -- replace 'em with composite material. Always have to watch the position of the cg and deal with the certification compliance. You see, I haven't found too many good ways! A light composite prop would seem to be a neat change. Does anyone know of one that could be used? Now, a composite THREE blade prop -- there you go! Dave N9518V
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