I am interested in what speeds >aircraft are attaining with out mass balancing of the elevator as my >elevator is built and what peoples oppions are as flutter can be destroy an >aircraft inflight! >Ross ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ross, I think a lot of apples and oranges are being mixed here. Flutter can happen at any speed and is not JUST speed related although speed can be a major factor. The engine size is irrelevant to flutter other than it's relation to speed and finally, balancing the elevator has nothing to do with aircraft stability other than the probably modest affect on CG. I"m using an 0-200 and because of several variables my KR is slower than most using that engine. Without wheel pants I'm getting a solid 150+ mph cruise. I'm in the middle of the CG envelop with me ( 200 lbs) and full fuel (25 gal in wings, no header). My plans size trim tab seems to be suffecient in the CG range I'm flying in but a similar KR which flies in the forward part of the CG range runs out of trim authority with a standard size tab. I think the standard size KR2 with an 0-200 is probably getting close to an honest 180 mph cruise and the 0-200 will probably burn 5.5 to 7.5 gal per hour, depending on the power setting. The elevators can be externally balanced and made to look good. Weights can be added to the ends of the elevator and extend forward along the edge of the horizontal stab. As to the Vne, I'd guess there are more factors limiting the Vne than elevator flutter but hey, I'm not an engineer. I almost forgot, I did balance my elevators. Larry Flesner
