REFLECTOR: spinner and Howard Handelman

[David Ullman]

Anyone have a feel for the effect of adding a spinner on a Velocity?  I have
a Catto prop on an SE.  I can get a spinner from Chris Wade for $325.  He
claims better cooling (so far not a problem with my plane, but it isn't
summer yet).  Any effect (positive) on speed?  Any thoughts on "bullet" or
"stinger" style.  Stinger has a long tip that looks like a pitot tube
sticking out of the spinner (if on a tractor airplane).

I almost like the "business end" look on my plane without a spinner.

Flight test continues around that fact that weather is still iffy.  Working
on getting speed under control on final.  Still very high, long and fast.
Better than the alternative. Takeoff distance with 200hp IO 360 C1C, a Catto
prop, half a tank of gas, 50 deg at near sea level, me (220lb) and 100lb
copilot ballast is about 1700-2000 ft.  Seems about right with this prop.

Also, I ordered the Dynon autopilot servos.  When I get them in and working
I will start running Howard Handelman's process for determining the exact
characteristics of the plane.  See
http://www.eaa.org/experimenter/articles/2009-08_drag.asp.  It would be
interesting if a group of us did this to compare plane characteristics.  Any
interest?

Finally, I will be in Phoenix later today and will be visiting with Matt
Bucko to see his progress.  

David Ullman
N-444DX Velocity 
EAA 292 President
david at davidullman.com
541-754-3609
1655 NW Hillcrest Dr
Corvallis OR 97330