85+hp tcraft

[PA1195]

Re: 85+hp tcraft

That plane linked above might be a nice choice. VG's to moderate the stall, large tires to add AOA in a 3-pt configuration, and proper brakes to slow it down that match the size of tires. C-85 and the right prop turning near max static rpm would offer good power.

Visibility out of the Taylorcraft is different than others, even Cessna's, with larger tires. You have to slip a bit as noted to get a full perspective of the landing zone, then adjust for ground contact. Not a problem just different. They do land different in my experience. The Champs you can get somewhat sloppy on airspeed on final and they'll still head unerringly for the touchdown zone (carrier landings). The Taylorcraft likes to fly and hates to quit the day's fun early so speed control becomes a matter to pay attention to.

Hopefully you can sit in one and maybe fly some to gain a better perspective.

Gary

[cstolaircraft]

Re: 85+hp tcraft

I was flying a C-170B out of 1300ft strip with less then 20 hours so I feel that I have a good base to start with for flying off short fields. I know comparing a cessna with Barn doors and a t craft are apples to oranges. Now I have flown a champ and in a about 30 minutes of landings was starting to get fairly consistent with spot landings ( +/- 30 foot). I would hope that with about the same time I could repeat the same in a T craft? compared to the Champ how different is the Tcraft in landing? I would like to find someone in about a 100 mile radius from me with a T craft to get some stick time to really see how they fly. Closest plane I know of now is 5 hours away.

[Scott]

Re: 85+hp tcraft

They would need to be extraordinary brakes to help reduce float ! lol

The key to short field landings is always the approach. In a Tcraft your side slip begins with a slipping turn onto base and ends when you straighten up for touchdown. If your tailwheel touches down just before the main gear you've done it right and really don't need much in the way of brakes.

The relatively large wing area combined with the relatively slippery airfoil/airframe means scrubbing off speed on approach is the key. This translates into mastering sideslipping (or extending your downwind leg, but the preference is to stay within easy dead-stick distance of the strip). The same large wing area means the aircraft gets airborne easily too for short field takeoffs.

[cvavon]

Re: 85+hp tcraft

I have just what you are looking for 1940 pre war C85-12 with a starter grove wheels and brakes for sale.and a hole lot more mods.

[cstolaircraft]

Re: 85+hp tcraft

hydraulic brakes would be something I would like to have in a plane. I have heard t crafts tend to float but was told that with proper speeds its a non issue.

[astjp2]

Re: 85+hp tcraft

Your biggest problem will be braking, taylorcrafts like to float. I have hydraulic brakes and was getting in and out of 600' strips but it takes some practice but easily accomplished, I had a hard time stopping consistently with the original drum brakes. Tim

[N96337]

Re: 85+hp tcraft

Glad to see you made it over here!
John

[cstolaircraft]

Hi Guys I am new here although some of you may know the name from BCP. I am interested in buying a t craft to fly off about 1000 ft strip at somewhere between 900-1200 msl. I have been told that the T craft is one of the best bang for the buck planes to get this done, but I would like to see for myself what one with 85-100hp will really do. I am in the St Louis area, usually fly out of KFAM and occasionally KFES. Anyone in this area that has a T craft with 85+ hp that will give me a ride? Also I am open to suggestions for other plane.