I did not install stall strips ³because it was not the manly thing to do.²  J  Actually, I had already finished and painted the wings before this was even discussed very much, and I was reluctant to do this afterward and re-paint the wings. If I had it to do over again, I would add stall strips, and I encourage you to do this. They cause absolutely no speed, weight or other penalty, and could be a life saver. I do have an AOA Pro system and have calibrated it for my airplane. This is something to consider also. My airplane stalls very well/straight ahead, but most roll prior to a full stall, some violently. I believe in exploring the approach to stall for these aircraft, and even a full stall, IF THE AIRPLANE BEHAVES WELL in the approach testing and WITH CAREFUL PLANNING AND AN EXPERIENCED LANCAIR IP/PILOT. This is definitely not something you want to do on the first few flights! There are some very good Lancair instructors around that will take you through stall testing if you¹d like. Again, please, not by yourselfŠ

From: Lancair Mailing List [mailto:lml@lancaironline.net] On Behalf Of Bill Wade
Sent: Friday, March 11, 2011 10:26 AM
To: lml@lancaironline.net
Subject: [LML] Re: Reality check

Hi  Bob- some other thoughts-

                                               As I moved the mains in and out, checking wheel well clearances, I started thinking about how retracting those suckers might affect CG. A lot of weight on long arms, moved aft. The nose gear as well, perhaps to a lesser extent. When I do the W&B I may try to measure both extended and retracted conditions (with suitable safeguards). In the event of a spin do you suppose extending the gear might help recovery?

  Speaking of which- did you install stall strips?

  I like your idea of the spacers and I'll install some when the time comes- I'll also move the power pack. As you say, a little weight in the rear could compensate if needed.

  If there's not much difference between the two styles I may use the 0/90 for the baggage floor. I cut the  gear area bulkhead from the +/-45, and that leaves enough length to cut the RH armrest. Pete Sinclair (ES-P) told me to reinforce that with 6 BID top and bottom (if I understood correctly) to reduce ballooning of the fuselage when pressurized. Did you do that? -Bill