DesertFlier
Member
I'm still very much in the dreaming stages of an aircraft project. The aircraft I really want is a Harmon Rocket II.
Here's my thinking:
I want cruise speeds as high as possible with fuel flows as low as possible (who doesn't?). We know the HR2 is redlined at 275 mph TAS. We can't go faster than that, but can we be more efficient?
You can pick up bits of efficiency here and there. You can use GAMI injectors and an engine analyzer to run lean of peak, lowering fuel flows. You can use electronic ignition to squeeze more power out of the engine by optimizing the timing. By carefully designing the cowling and cooling system, you can minimize drag there.
What I'd really like to build is a turbocharged Rocket. You can't fly faster than 275, but you can fly higher in the thinner air and, in theory at least, burn less fuel doing it.
So, are there any turbocharged HR2s out there, or is anyone working on a similar aircraft? Keep in mind I'm already aware of the disadvantages of cost and increased maintenance. I'm just curious to see what others with more experience might think of this idea.
Here's my thinking:
I want cruise speeds as high as possible with fuel flows as low as possible (who doesn't?). We know the HR2 is redlined at 275 mph TAS. We can't go faster than that, but can we be more efficient?
You can pick up bits of efficiency here and there. You can use GAMI injectors and an engine analyzer to run lean of peak, lowering fuel flows. You can use electronic ignition to squeeze more power out of the engine by optimizing the timing. By carefully designing the cowling and cooling system, you can minimize drag there.
What I'd really like to build is a turbocharged Rocket. You can't fly faster than 275, but you can fly higher in the thinner air and, in theory at least, burn less fuel doing it.
So, are there any turbocharged HR2s out there, or is anyone working on a similar aircraft? Keep in mind I'm already aware of the disadvantages of cost and increased maintenance. I'm just curious to see what others with more experience might think of this idea.