Recently, I flew my O-360 180 hp, fixed pitch aluminum Sensenich prop RV-4 on a long trip. Here are some numbers for data points. Originally, I was concerned about fuel range with the bigger engine, yet stock 16 gallon tanks, but not anymore.
Westbound at 17,500, it took 5 gallons from takeoff to get to altitude, then pulled the throttle back to close the “enrichment valve” and was at 15 inches MAP, 2630 RPM, leaned for 50 degrees rich of peak (there’s no “red box” at that percent power) and did 7GPH at 166 to 173 KTAS. Average for the 2+ hour legs was 8 to 8.1 per hour, including the climb.
Eastbound at 16,500, I decided to go a little more economy, and throttled back for 150 KTAS. 13.7 inches of MAP, 2420 RPM, 6 GPH. 3:20 flight time and still landed with 12.4 gallons remaining!
Pretty amazing little planes!
Westbound at 17,500, it took 5 gallons from takeoff to get to altitude, then pulled the throttle back to close the “enrichment valve” and was at 15 inches MAP, 2630 RPM, leaned for 50 degrees rich of peak (there’s no “red box” at that percent power) and did 7GPH at 166 to 173 KTAS. Average for the 2+ hour legs was 8 to 8.1 per hour, including the climb.
Eastbound at 16,500, I decided to go a little more economy, and throttled back for 150 KTAS. 13.7 inches of MAP, 2420 RPM, 6 GPH. 3:20 flight time and still landed with 12.4 gallons remaining!
Pretty amazing little planes!
