Quick 51 Question

[Spork]

Got a quick one for you 51 pilots. Do the drop tanks add a drag penalty even after they are released? Ie the K4


Thanks
Spork

[TheRapier]

Hi Spork!

They don't appear to. Additionally, assymetrical loading doesn't seem to be a problem either. I usually fly to the fight with only one drop tank. You pick up about 200 fpm climb and have plenty of fuel to get to where you want to go.

I don't fight with them as there is a definite drag and weight penalty there, unlike some other planes.

[DERK13]

ima have to say no, becuase even when you dont have the tanks you still have the bar thing that you attach things to like bombs or DTs. If i am wrong please correct me. Salute

[IamSalem]

ima have to say no, becuase even when you dont have the tanks you still have the bar thing that you attach things to like bombs or DTs. If i am wrong please correct me. Salute

Yeah, the pylon is still on the wing whether or not you have DTs or going slick.

[Spork]

Thanks for the quick responses gents.
Teaches me to never question the best 51 pilot I know.
 


Spork

[bj229r]

US planes have the pylons whether you use them or not, LW rides have these racks, which wouldn't be there if the drop tank/egg hadn't been selected. In the D9, it cost like 9 mph, as I recall

[Lusche]

LW rides have these racks, which wouldn't be there if the drop tank/egg hadn't been selected.

One exception to that rule is the TA 152H, which as a streamlined, permanently installed "high speed" pylon for the drop tank.

[Soulyss]

US planes have the pylons whether you use them or not, LW rides have these racks, which wouldn't be there if the drop tank/egg hadn't been selected. In the D9, it cost like 9 mph, as I recall

I just popped into the TA and at least graphically there is a difference with the P-39's (both), F4U-1, & F4U-1A.  Can't speak to the flight modeling but on those 4 airplanes there is a bomb/droptank shackle on the plane after the tank is released. 

[Spork]

I just popped into the TA and at least graphically there is a difference with the P-39's (both), F4U-1, & F4U-1A.  Can't speak to the flight modeling but on those 4 airplanes there is a bomb/droptank shackle on the plane after the tank is released. 

So you are saying that the bracket ISN't there when you do not equip the drop tank?



Spork

[Soulyss]

On those planes yes, the drop tank brace does not appear to be part of the basic airframe as it is on the 51, 38, F4U-1D, etc.

[Spork]

On those planes yes, the drop tank brace does not appear to be part of the basic airframe as it is on the 51, 38, F4U-1D, etc.

Copy that. Thanks for the clarification sir.

Spork