Since we can not feather the prop, can we assume that the 3 blades will give us less glide because of more drag. I think so… I like to see Cirrus come up with a design that would allow us to bring the throttle all the way back then to the side and further back. In case of an emergency where the engine can not be re-started we can bring the throttle all the way back, then to the side which would disconnect the throttle and when you bring further back you would be feathering the prop back to give us the most glide. Cirrus is a safe airplane, but if they could do this it would really increase the glide and also the safety factor. Next time you are out flying with a three bladed prop, try to pull the power all the way back, then when you notice that you are not going to make to the pavement, pull the prop all the way back. There is a big difference in between a 2 versus 3 blades. I have tested the difference in Comanches. It will surprise you the difference in the drag. Always plan for the worst, and hope it will never get here. Have a great Cirrus day…
Since we can not feather the prop, can we assume that the 3 blades will give us less glide because of more drag. I think so… I like to see Cirrus come up with a design that would allow us to bring the throttle all the way back then to the side and further back. In case of an emergency where the engine can not be re-started we can bring the throttle all the way back, then to the side which would disconnect the throttle and when you bring further back you would be feathering the prop back to give us the most glide. Cirrus is a safe airplane, but if they could do this it would really increase the glide and also the safety factor. Next time you are out flying with a three bladed prop, try to pull the power all the way back, then when you notice that you are not going to make to the pavement, pull the prop all the way back. There is a big difference in between a 2 versus 3 blades. I have tested the difference in Comanches. It will surprise you the difference in the drag. Always plan for the worst, and hope it will never get here. Have a great Cirrus day…
From what people have said ther is 1" of extra ground clearance and a somewhat significant (if undocumented) reduction in noise, and virtually no loss of performance. There is a 15 lbs. weight penalty and movement of the CG forward, which seems tight.
The prop is 'sexier" but I don’t know if anyone will pay that much more on the used market for it and it does cost more up front, and will have a higer maintenance bill over it’s life.
For the owners out there, do you have any insight based on your choice? I was leaning towards the 2 blades (cost, weight, CG and performance if any) but I am still very open.