Nats newbie questions 2004 / Intermediate

[Gray E Fowler]

Chris

It is always good to check your plane for noise AND weight BEFORE you 
leave. If you do not pass you will be disqualified on the last day-thats 
when they check the planes. More people fail weight than noise. Your 
engine set up will most likely pass, but there are a few things you need 
to consider. 

However you have it propped makes a big difference. The higher RPM you go 
above about 8000, the closer you will be to failing. Try not to exceed the 
low 8000's on the ground-if you already are change props. Multi blades are 
quieter. You will be at site 4 which is grass, and the noise check is done 
on grass. I think that checking on grass is a bigger benefit than the 2 dB 
they give to those checked on hard surface.  My plane checks 95 db on hard 
surface and at Municie on grass it was 92.

Also make sure that nothing is loose or rattling on your plane. Vibrating 
chin cowls and canopies can add alot of noise.

Get access  to a scale. If you are real close to 5Kg then you need to know 
exactly what you are flying (equipment)  once you get to Muncie.

Make sure your plane is under 2 meters. This sounds like a no brainer, but 
few actually check this. and extra wing tips, or a little bit longer 
rudder can mess you up here.

They have the scale, the 2 meter check fixture, and the dB meter set up in 
advance so you can check your plane, but if you fail during the pre-check 
you will need to be able to modify the problem when you are up in Muncie, 
which could be difficult.


Gray Fowler
Principal Chemical Engineer
Composites Engineering




"White, Chris" <chris at ssd.fsi.com>
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04/20/2004 07:44 AM
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        Subject:        Nats newbie questions 2004 / Intermediate


Hi guys, sorry if I've missed it, but....
Is there a spot on the AMA or NSRCA site that shows the newbie what they 
need to know about flying at the nats.  I have registered & paid, hotel 
booked, have backup frequencies covered, and now have completed the 
judging seminar (Thanks Springfield guys and Charlie Rock:), but I realize 
the noise testing stuff, weighing and processing have to be done.  The 
nats packet I received from AMA didn't have the detail I expected (ok I'm 
a worry-wart???)   For Instance: Without access to a decibel meter, is 
there any way to be sure my aircraft will be compatible with the noise 
checks?
(Webra 145, 2blade and 4 blade props, Greve pipe, wood airframe) 
 
Anyway surely there is a spot online that will minimize tying up the 
discussion list....
Thanks,
 
Chris White
NSRCA 3601
 
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