To all,
I know this topic has been beaten to death in the past. Most of the conversation on speed mods has been directed to pre 1979 Cherokee models. I am looking for specific advice on a 1980 T-Tail Turbo Arrow. Does anyone have advice or experience on which mods work and the results. Thinking about gap seals, lighted wing tips.
Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but aside from the T-tail configuration, the Arrow airframe hasn't changed since 1977 through the present, so I don't know why 1977 through 1979 discussions wouldn't be relevant.
The cruise speeds are identical, and few mods are available that affect the tail anyway except maybe a low profile or streamlined strobe. They should all at least have the same relative effect.
I have a 78 TA that I purchased 5 years ago with all the "speed enhancements" in place (Wing root seals, gap seals, dorsal fairing, Lopresti hubcaps, speed splitters, splatters and whatever). My advice is to save your money since they don't provide any additional benefit.
As a Turbo Arrow owner, I'd suggest a merlyn wastegate. It really transforms the airplane into a true joy to fly. Unsure about speed gains, but I know my engine runs cooler than the Turbo Arrow I rented without it ever did.
Thanks guys for the information. I do have the Merlyn and GAMI injectors. My temps went down accross the board and with the GAMI's my cylinders are only 70oF from the coldest/hottest. I am also able to go LOP and burn 10.5gph. When I leaned 60oF LOP via TIT i peaked at 1630 and ended up at 1570 TIT. All the cht's were under 360oF. I started leaning at 8000 feet with power set 33" 2400rpm.
there are additional mods for this airplane. How about 20 additional horsepower. running cooler, and pressurized magnetos. All this is available for the turbo arrow.
