Spit/109 sea level speed comparisons in 1.08 beta patch

[ATAG_Dutch]

Originally Posted by NZtyphoon

Just looking at ATAG-Dutch's demo the rpm doesn't seem to go above 1,600 in two tests 130-440 mph...hmmm.

Hi Typhoon, the test was conducted with the csp brought back to as close to feathered as possible, plus throttle zero. This was to minimize the other drag effects other than the radiator. Trims were not altogether uniform in the three runs either. However, in a vertical dive, gravity assisted only, the radiator shutter caused a full 3 second discrepancy from minimum time at 50% rad and maximum time at 100%.

I'll happily upload the mission I did this with in FMB if anyone would like to carry out the test themselves. The times in 100ths of a second were from the counter in windows movie-maker. This meant i could measure the time from the frame first 'unpaused' to the ASI hitting 440mph. Well, the next line on the gauge after 420.

[ATAG_Snapper]

On a positive note, losing the rudder far below its rated 450 mph IAS helps reduce the Spitfire's roll rate in a dive. Usually the ailerons and elevator are quick to go as well. Losing the elevator ensures the pilot will not overstrain the airframe even if he hauls back on the control column excessively. The airframe should thus remain relatively intact until impact with the ground. It's all good.