Tom wrote:
> When the D model came out with 1400 lbs. gross they had handling > problems. Changing the elevator travel was not a perfect solution. > So they reduced gross weight and named it a CD. Having flown 800 hours or so in that D configuration, Id say the handling problems are minimal in our modern world. Remember, runways back in 1947 averaged shorter and lots of them were grass. The small difference in landing speed and takeoff roll made more of a difference back then. Also, most all of the competing planes were tail draggers (think take-off gear). The Coupe was competing on takeoff with really good performers back on the old sod field. Any change in takeoff roll was a big deal. I flew a whole lot of hours off an 1800 useable lumpy-grass field (with no obstructions) with good comfort, elevation 980. Admittedly, I had a climb prop. Doing that with a normal prop might have been marginal and maybe the D-ness would have been part of the difficulty. I used a lot of short fields and tried to stay with 1600 or longer on grass. I was normally off the ground in 800-1000 and Id pick up more speed in ground effect before climbing out. Again, thats with a climb prop at gross weights up to 1400. My go/no-go decision point was normally the intersection at mid-way on the runway. I expected to be wheels-off at that point. Even with a heavy passenger and hot day, my no-go point was wheels off at about 1100. I would agree that the split elevator is the preferred setup. Much of the slipstream goes through the central cutout so the elevator can have 20° up travel yet still have very little pitch/trim difference from idle to full power. Its a good idea. It does bring the minimum flying speed back down to equal the 415-C. But I wouldnt put off using the 1320 STC to wait for it. Changing to a climb prop or having your prop repitched to 7148 or maybe even 7146 is something Id do. Im heavy and was habitually flying at heavier weights. And, Im not impressed by Coupe climb rates in the best cases and very dis-impressed with the climb rate with the normal prop. Id rather give up the cruise speed and improve my climb. Thats my preference. YMMV Your Mileage May Vary! Experiment and measure! But I, personally, would immediately go to the 1320 lb. STC. JMHO. Ed
