Dale Williams wrote:

                    I'm finally getting ready to assemble rx-7 to go
into my w8 tailwind. Would like to use my existing
motor mount and gear legs with modifications to
use rx-7. This would mean a 60" diameter prop.
I've been flying this prop/90 hp cont. combo for
40 years. I really hesitate to increase gear
length because of the excellent results I have had
in the past.

                    Please sign me up for acre .

                    Thank You,

                    Dale Williams

               Wow a 60 inch prop should turn 8000 engine RPM for take
off using a 2.85:1 gear box. With a p-port that would
be close to 275 HP. Quite spectacular. Paul Lamar

          And if you don't enlarge the ailerons and rudder, your first
takeoff could be really spectacular :)
          Bulent

Not necessarily true. 0-320 W-8 are not uncommon. There is one 0-360
with a constant speed said to fly rather nicely. In spite of the size
of the control surfaces, the Tailwind is extremely responsive. Thank
you Mr Steve Wittman. Of course, Tailwinds are not cookie cutter
aircraft and each one is unique. And the more recent model the W-10
does have somewhat larger tail feathers. This is a easy modification
if the aircraft is being restored. Dale, unless you have something
unusual, you should be able to swing a 68 inch prop. Feel free to
contact me off line. I am quite familiar with this installation. Jerry
jerryhey@earthlink.net

Matt Prather wrote:

A friend of mine who lived in Minnesota and flew all over Minnesota
and Wisconsin says he saw Steve Wittman a few times.  He relates
one occasion where he was in line to depart behind Mr Wittman in
his O&O special (O470 230hp slightly bigger Tailwind).  When Mr
Wittman took the runway, he lined up on the far right side of the runway
(I think) with no apparent xwind. Upon applying takeoff power it became
apparent that the reason he was lined up on the side was because the
O&O lacked enough rudder authority to maintain the centerline, and
was nearly on the opposite side of the runway before breaking ground
(3 point).  He probably just need a locking tailwheel or more direct
tailwheel steering.

The Tailwind with 230hp is a serious performer.

Regards,

Matt-
VE N34RD, C150 N714BK

 
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