Returning from a colored leaf survey flight on a pleasant fall day - and with nothing better to do - I thought I would try to better understand the weird laminar flow reflexed wing we sit on.  Especially at mid range flight speeds in cruise since I generally know the plane at only 2 ranges, 175 KIAS and above or 120 KIAS and below.

 

3000 feet, 12C

 

21" MAP, 2260 RPM, ~60% Power, 156 KIAS, (161 KTAS), AOA 3.2

50F LOP, 5.7 gph, cyls ~340F

 

19", 2260, ~55%, 135 KIAS, AOA 4.2-4.4

50F LOP, 4.7 gph, cyls ~320F

 

At the latter setting, the pitch up is beginning to be uncomfortable - but, I could easily stay in the air for 8 hours (with a 1 hour reserve) at that speed and altitude, and cover 1080 NM (no wind).  Of course, at 185 KIAS it would only take 5.8 air hours but I would have to stop for fuel and take care of any personal needs.  This LOP stuff is okay for endurance, if that's what turns your crank (pun intended).