FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much does the complete kit weigh?
This kit added approximately 40 pounds to the empty weight of our aircraft. A trade off that has paid for itself in comfort and safety many times over.
How much speed did you loose after the installation of the scoop?
We ran a flight test before the kit was installed and established a baseline airspeed. After the install we found the extra drag to only cost us 2 to 4 knots. We credit that to the wind tunnel testing done on the scoop to make it as aerodynamic as possible. The Lancair IV-P in the pictures reported a 4-knot decrease in speed at cruise.
How much is the optional carbon fiber scoop?
The carbon fiber scoop will add approximately $200 to the price of the kit.
How much is the bracket for the Prop Governor?
If the bracket is not included for your particular kit the price to buy one is $30
What is the difference between the electric system and engine driven system?
When we researched all of the systems on the market we found a big difference in the amount of btu's. Most of the electric systems put out only 9000 btu's. Also, because they require electrical energy you must have an electrical system that can handle the induced load.
Our system is engine driven just like your car. However, this unit is 18000 btu's and only costs 4 to 6 horsepower. In our Glasair III we shut the doors and start the engine. In about one minute we feel the difference in temperature as the cockpit cools down from 110 plus degrees. Furthermore, the A/C is running continuously during take off and landing. There really isn't any noticeable decrease in power.
We fly a TBM 700 in Yuma with an electric A/C system and to be honest it is worthless. The owner has a portable window air conditioner with a big piece of duct that he uses to pre-cool the airplane. No wonder the new 850 TBM is now engine driven and what a nice system it is. See the article in AOPA 2008 May edition.
