piperowner
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Apr 12, 2011
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Like many of you, I am always looking for ways to improve performance. After installing all the speed modifications and removing drag items, like antennas etc. I was left with one item to consider, the cowl.
I notice that on many PA-28s there is a gap between the top of the spinner back plate and the cowl (looks like engine sag). It seems to be quite large and varies between aircraft. My first thought was bad motor mounts. I replaced mine and it made a small difference but there was still a large gap of ¾ to 1 inch. I discussed it with my IA and he and I concluded that Piper did not trim the cowls to fit properly. I do not have a before picture but attached is an afterwards picture. The pros are; I think it looks better and makes it easier to see over the front, the cowl openings now match up better with the engine at the front. I think there may be a few other minor repairs that could be done while you are working on the cowl that may decrease drag. I have full instrumentation and did not notice any CHT or EGT changes afterwards. Cons; it is a little harder to remove the top half of the cowl by yourself.
[attachment=0:2rps8dev]IMG00017-20111120-1532.jpg[/attachment:2rps8dev]
I notice that on many PA-28s there is a gap between the top of the spinner back plate and the cowl (looks like engine sag). It seems to be quite large and varies between aircraft. My first thought was bad motor mounts. I replaced mine and it made a small difference but there was still a large gap of ¾ to 1 inch. I discussed it with my IA and he and I concluded that Piper did not trim the cowls to fit properly. I do not have a before picture but attached is an afterwards picture. The pros are; I think it looks better and makes it easier to see over the front, the cowl openings now match up better with the engine at the front. I think there may be a few other minor repairs that could be done while you are working on the cowl that may decrease drag. I have full instrumentation and did not notice any CHT or EGT changes afterwards. Cons; it is a little harder to remove the top half of the cowl by yourself.
[attachment=0:2rps8dev]IMG00017-20111120-1532.jpg[/attachment:2rps8dev]
