So yesterday afternoon, because it was such beautiful flying weather for the first time in what seems like ages, I took the Maule (MX-7-180A) up to see what kinda gumption it has. The air was like glass with a light breeze, and it was a perfect opportunity to do a 3-course GPS run. So I set up at about 4000 feet, firewall everything and leaned it for best power (about 3/4" out, it seems), and I let 'er rip.
The airspeed indicator seemed to level out at about 128mph, so that's what I went with for my reference point. I monitored the GPS ground speed at 000, 120, and 240 degree headings, and it averaged out to roughly 116kts/133mph. Couple that with air temp and altitude, and TAS is pretty darn close.
So what I know now is a couple of things:
1. The airspeed indicator is accurate
2. I ain't goin' any faster than 115kts/130mph on the best day
Unless I'm in a dive, then I could probably hit 135
Max Speed, Straight and Level
- Chris in Milwaukee
- 100+ Posts
- Posts: 463
- Joined: Wed Dec 21, 2016 10:24 am
- Location: Wisconsin
- Contact:
Max Speed, Straight and Level
Christopher Owens
1993 MX-7-180A
Members: AOPA EAA VAA
1993 MX-7-180A
Members: AOPA EAA VAA
-
- 100+ Posts
- Posts: 1665
- Joined: Mon Feb 11, 2008 10:31 am
- Contact:
Yup, that's the way it seems to be with the fixed pitch 180's.
FWIW the best air density for max speed testing would be a bit higher, 7,000 feet at standard temperatures.
Part or the problem is full throttle will redline the motor in straight and level flight at lower altitudes.
Mine will give 130-135 MPH true more or less. Not very impressive, but a good way to 'build hours'.
FWIW the best air density for max speed testing would be a bit higher, 7,000 feet at standard temperatures.
Part or the problem is full throttle will redline the motor in straight and level flight at lower altitudes.
Mine will give 130-135 MPH true more or less. Not very impressive, but a good way to 'build hours'.
I am an AME in Richland, Washington. Please call for an appointment!
560 Gage Blvd.
Richland, WA 99352
(509) 628-2843
560 Gage Blvd.
Richland, WA 99352
(509) 628-2843
Who is online
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 24 guests