I was wondering if anyone knows wheter the different tails on Spitfires really make a lot of difference to the flying characteristics and handling of the aircraft. I mean, if a pilot who usually flys a Mk IX Spitfire with the original style rounded tail – like MH434’s – got into a Mk IX or XVI with the pointy type tail – like TB863’s – would they notice a different handling? Does it have to be trimmed differently, etc? I assume the change in the design was to improve handling, but does a pilot notice it significantly?
Cheers
Dave
By: Phil Foster - 27th May 2004 at 12:27
Dim memory says that Jeffery Quill addressed this in his book?
G’day 😉
Can anybody still get his book I have tried twice only to be told it was out of circulation?
Phil
By: Feather #3 - 27th May 2004 at 11:21
Dim memory says that Jeffery Quill addressed this in his book?
G’day 😉
By: Slipstream - 27th May 2004 at 10:53
I believe the change was to increase the rudder area to counteract the torque from a more powerful engine and a 4 blade prop. I also believe that a spin off of this was an increase in the crosswind limit. Trimming would be carried out the same – to relieve pressure on the stick. With regard to the rudder, the pilot may notice an increase in the force needed to move it in flight, not sure really, you’d need to ask someone lucky enough to fly both types.
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May 27, 2004 at 8:44 am