Shrouded Prop

[Deskpilot]

It must be on Homebuiltairplanes (HBA) that there's an interesting discussian about ducted and shrouded props and fans. They haven't however, mentioned this, shall we call it a death trap, from years ago. I wonder how many times it flew and if it did, how soon was it that it tripped over itself.

 

 

 

[farri]

Crikey,Is that for real? :ah_oh:

 

Frank.

 

 

[dazza 38]

How could you pick the tail up.The prop shroud would hit the ground.I guess 3 point landings only.

 

 

[Spin]

That aint pretty!!

 

 

[Guest ozzie]

obviously an experiment, I wonder what they used the information for. looks like a lot of thought went into the profile of the ring. year?

 

three pointers where the norm back then when taildraggers were 'conventional'.

 

 

[Yenn]

Some of the current top aerobatic aircraft have to keep the tail down and take off in a 3 point configuration. Would be good training for those who like to tear the nosewheels off jabirus.

 

 

[farri]

I very rarely pick up the tail on the Drifter.I find I get off the ground sooner and smoother.

 

Frank.

 

 

[pudestcon]

I very rarely pick up the tail on the Drifter.I find I get off the ground sooner and smoother.Frank.

So no abnormal wear on the tailwheel from doing that Frank?

 

Pud

 

 

[farri]

Hi Pud and David...Yes I`m on grass most of the time,however, it wouldn`t make a lot of difference and I find it works well even with someone in the back seat.The tail may need to be picked up,if on soft sand.

 

I fitted the modification that Austflight made, many years ago.The tail wheel is 2.50x4, it`s actually 230 m/m in diameter not the little one it came with and I keep it pumped firmly.

 

The wheel has sealed bearings and when needed,I remove the seals, apply new grease then put the seals back.The wheel is almost 20 years old and has done many hours,a heck of a lot in training and from memory,this is the third pair of bearings,just replaced 1 tyre and tube,got perished.

 

I always try to do a 3 pointer on landing,also.I get it most of the time.

 

Frank.