Zenith Aircraft Builders and Flyers
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Prop Pitch UL350is
Hi All, my Sensenich prop is pitched from the original builder at #4 and I’m getting a static RPM just under 2800 RPM. Climb out around 2850 and max level around 2930. Thinking of decreasing pitch for better climb as I’m flying in higher DA as temps are warming up. Will be going in/out of some Idaho mountains and might need a little extra climb. Anybody play around with the pitch tools and find mind sharing where you ended up? Thanks!
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Perry Hyden on
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A few years ago Roger did a video about trying different settings on the Cruzer. The video is probably still on the Zenith youtube channel. You could probably check with him about the settings they use.
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Permalink Reply by MARIO FERNANDO ROCA on
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HOLA. Yo vivo en Buenos Aires, Argentina, y tengo el mismo problema con la helice en #4.
El motor cumplió 200 hs, y su funcionamiento es excelente.
en la inspección que corresponde a 200 hs, voy a colocar el paso en #3.
esto seguramente subirá las RPM y ganaré 3/5 kts de velocidad final.
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Permalink Reply by Ralph Powell on
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Barrett,
I fly a Cruzer with a 350i and a Sensenich prop. My experience is that if you flatten the pitch too much you have to keep an eye an engine temps. As a result I keep my pitch setting at #4 or #5. Also, UL manual calls for limited time of engine use above 2800 rpm. If you go to a #3 setting be prepared to to watch your CHT climb, noticeabley.
The difference in rate of climb between the pitch settings has not been dramatic. Between single pitch changes it is difficult to quantify. The best way to enhance climb performance is to clean out all the clutter that accumulates in the cargo area. I cleaned out 20-30 pounds of jackets, tools, extra oil, battery charger, water, snacks, etc. at my last condition inspection. Let’s not talk about the effects of cutting back on beer intake…That stuff creeps up on you. The other big factor is to fly near sea level. I am based in SE Idaho at 4,500 ft. Lower elevation take-offs are noticeabley shorter and steeper. As for flying in Idaho with a STOL, almost all public strips are easy for your plane. Your experience and skills are the only limit. Enjoy!
Ralph
1100 hours on 350i and still smiling!
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