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Date: Wed, 07 Nov 2007 09:46:33 -0500
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From: "Dan Schaefer" <dfs155@roadrunner.com>
Subject: RE: [LML] Needing performance information on the Lancair 200 and 235
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Sounds like something is amiss - either your airspeed indicator is telling 
you lies or something is very wrong with that airplane. If everything is set 
up correctly with that 200/235, with that engine, you should see close to 
perhaps 150 Kt. once trimmed for cruise, i.e., proper reflex and mixture 
leaned.

I have been flying an early 235, with a Lyc. O-235-L2C (with Hi-comp 
helicopter pistons - producing perhaps 125 HP @ 2700 RPM) since 1993. In the 
beginning, I used a fixed pitch prop (From Aymar-Demuth - whom I DO NOT 
recommend - long story but two failed props was enough) - 62" dia x 72 - 76 
" pitch. This gave me a lousy takeoff performance (2350 RPM at the start of 
the roll at sea level) but a nice cruise AS of approx. 160 kts at WOT and 
2650 RPM. Correct wood prop = good cruise but exciting takeoffs.

Subsequently changed to a MT electric CS, two bladed prop, I see around 
2700+ RPM on takeoff (engine rated for 2800 RPM continuous). The airplane 
breaks ground at about 80 - 85 MPH IAS - flaps neutral. Level off, put the 
gear up and wait a bit to accelerate to about 130 MPH IAS. Holding that IAS 
requires more and more pull until I see about 1200 FPM rate of climb (at max 
weight). Climb at that IAS to altitude with a bit of RPM reduction to 
approx. 2600 and progressive leaning as I climb. At desired altitude, level 
off, set RPM to 2550. Accelerate to about 160 MPH IAS where I set full 
reflex, which needs some agressive re-trimming (nose-down) and wait for the 
airplane to accelerate to cruise speed of close to 165 Kts. - which usually 
takes about 20 - 30 seconds.

As regards to using flaps on takeoff, I can see no noticeable difference in 
my airplane between zero flaps and any other setting (though I've never 
tried to take off with the flaps in full reflex). Since each Lancair is 
unique due to the inevitable variations during the build process, your 
experience may vary.

If your Continental is making 115 HP the airplane should perform somewhat 
similiarly to mine (at sea level) as I live where almost all airports are at 
about 3000 MSL.

Good luck, they are great little airplanes when operated correctly.

Dan Schaefer
Early 235 N235SP