Difficulties in flying the Grumman TBF (Real life)

[DaveBB]

I've been reading about the TBF Avenger, and as always, was fascinated to see some of the quirks of the aircraft.  Because of very high stick forces (among other factors that weren't clearly described), unless the plane is trimmed for a specific airspeed, it was impossible to perform even some basic maneuvers.  Even pulling out of a dive requires adjustment to trim.  This is why modern TBFs require a type specific rating, to learn how to use the trim system. 

But then again, after seeing one in real life flying next to a B-25, and seeing just how huge it was for a single engine plane, I can understand.  Does anyone know of a larger single engine prop plane than the TBF?  The only one I can think of is that huge Russian biplane (AN-2 I think).  Some of the frankenstein variants of the A-1 with the 4 person cockpit might come close.

[Zimme83]

Depends on how you defines "lager". By weight the P-47 had about the same maximum weight. By physical size the Avenger is roughly equal to a Cessna 208, the Cessna is longer but has a slightly shorter wing span.

[DaveBB]

 A Cessna 208 has 279 sq ft of wing area and a gross weight of 8000lbs.  A TBF has a wing area of 400 sq ft and a gross weight of 18,000lbs. 

[colmbo]

The type-rating is required for the Avenger because it grosses over 12,500 pounds.

[Mister Fork]

Columbo - you've flown a lot of WWII aircraft - what was the hardest to fly?

[colmbo]

Columbo - you've flown a lot of WWII aircraft - what was the hardest to fly?

I don't know that two is a lot.   Of the B-24 and B-17 I guess you work a little harder flying the B-24.  Either of them had things that were easy to do and things that were more challenging.

[save]

I flew an AN-2 like 10 years ago, heavy on its controls, and for the instructor -  very intensive fiddling with the engine.

I was not allowed to start and land it, though.
 You needed a flywheel to actually turn around the engine, electric starter was too weak.
100 liters of fuel and 5-10 liters of oil per hour consumption.