Nice P337

rrolland · #1 10-13-20, 05:42 PM

Looking good Ken. Now that you have flown it, how does it compare to your previous P337?

KLRDMD · #2 10-13-20, 09:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rrolland

Looking good Ken. Now that you have flown it, how does it compare to your previous P337?

Everything is different. The avionics are much nicer in this P337 than my previous one although the paint and interior were better in my first one. This one has Keith A/C which is better than the Horton A/C in my previous one and likewise the R/STOL in this is better than the Horton STOL in my previous one.

I'm still getting the sight picture down as this one takes off and lands about 25 kts slower than my first one. I rotate at 52 KIAS. Full performance calls for rotation at 43 KIAS. I fly short final at 60 KIAS where the full performance landing calls for 60 KIAS gradually slowing to 43 KIAS at touchdown.

Coming from an S35 Bonanza, the handling COULD NOT BE MORE DIFFERENT!!! This sucker is heavy and ponderous. There is also the illusion of lack of speed in cruise. I look at the airspeed indicator and see 150-160 KIAS (I fly 65% power, LOP) but across the ground it just doesn't look like it is moving that fast.

rrolland · #3 10-14-20, 07:47 AM

The takeoff and approach/landing speeds with the Robertson STOL kit sound incredible. I have the Horton kit. I rotate at around 60 and usually cross the threshold at 70 and then let the speed decay until touchdown also at around 60. I am sure that there is still some lift there and I could probably be slower. There is no data in the POH associated with the Horton.

The P Skymaster needs to go high to get the speed. At low altitudes like 3 to 5 K, it does around 160 or so at 65% power. It really starts to get better at 10K and above. And it really shines in the 14 to 17 K range. Engines are also happy there with CHT's in the mid 300's in ISA +20 weather and cowl flaps closed.

I actually like the feel of the controls. I am sure that they feel heavy compared to a Bonanza. They are heavier than what I had on my previous type, a Rockwell 114, but to me at least well harmonized and provide a steady feel that is really good for what the airplane is designed for: travel. The elevator is quite powerful due to its size.

Richard

KLRDMD · #4 10-14-20, 08:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rrolland

I actually like the feel of the controls. I am sure that they feel heavy compared to a Bonanza. They are heavier than what I had on my previous type, a Rockwell 114, but to me at least well harmonized and provide a steady feel that is really good for what the airplane is designed for: travel. The elevator is quite powerful due to its size.

The R/STOL feels very different than the Horton STOL.

JimC · #5 10-14-20, 10:47 PM

Ken,

What's the empty weight of the plane you just bought?

KLRDMD · #6 10-14-20, 10:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JimC

Ken,

What's the empty weight of the plane you just bought?

Too heavy. Aren't they all? About 3450 lb I think

hharney · #7 10-14-20, 08:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KLRDMD

This one has Keith A/C which is better than the Horton A/C in my previous one .

Horton A/C? Never knew of Horton making or installing A/C

KLRDMD · #8 10-14-20, 08:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hharney

Horton A/C? Never knew of Horton making or installing A/C

My mistake. My previous P337 had Riley A/C. It ran off the rear engine and wasn't as effective as Keith.

mshac · #9 11-04-20, 08:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KLRDMD

Coming from an S35 Bonanza, the handling COULD NOT BE MORE DIFFERENT!!! This sucker is heavy and ponderous.

I must agree. I came out of an E-series Bonanza, which is a pure joy to fly. Light on the controls, instant response. Just pure aviation magic.

The 337 has me thinking I'm flying an airliner again.

I would go so far as to say that the 337 would be a good trainer for those planning on moving up to the big jets.

You'll start out on a regional CRJ or ERJ, which both have the engines on the rear of the fuselage. Pretty darn similar to Center-Line-Thrust!

JimC · #10 11-04-20, 10:20 PM

I feel like the R/STOL planes are two planes with one yoke. The handling at cruise is COMPLETELY different than the low speed handling. It's wild having two planes in one package.

My Beech is an absolute joy to fly, but it won't land in the same places this will and doesn't have the same amazing view when flying low over terrain. They both put grins on my face.

KLRDMD · #11 11-04-20, 10:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JimC

I feel like the R/STOL planes are two planes with one yoke. The handling at cruise is COMPLETELY different than the low speed handling. It's wild having two planes in one package.

Unfortunately I haven't had the time to fly it much yet but this weekend I hope to get it up to altitude and go somewhere.