




What's New Upfront at Belted Air. It's been a long time coming but the news is Vari-Prop! Larry Morgan and Dave Hansen showed up at the hangar with their creation, the Vari-Prop, a totally controllable prop for non hollow or oiled crankshafts. This prop can be made ground adjustable, cockpit controlled or constant speed with the addition of a few items. The prop has been around for almost 20 years but is now back in the United States and controlled by these competent gentlemen. They installed the prop on 67Y for some initial testing, a 100+ pounds of static thrust was realized instantly. The first flight indicated a cruise speed of 170 mph.true for 3500 engine and 20" MAP. This was at 4000 msl with an oat of 82F. Quite warm. Further testing later in the day a gross weight take off at 1750 lbs showed climb out at 1500 fpm. Temperatures by then were 84F+ with runway temps above 95F our density altitude was 5000 msl. For comparison another homebuilt had just departed after our takeoff and was clawing for sky at a much lesser rate, with a single pilot. These early flights are not conclusive and should in no way equate to the outcome of a complete flight test, but do hint strongly of a positive future of this prop. If all is according to plan a larger version would be available to craft in the 4 seat class using our PSRU drive with a 350cu.in. V-8. It would offer the economy of the V-8 and the match of an affordable prop. The great thing about this set up is that no airframe modifications are needed and the power pack can be mounted almost anywhere. Please stay tuned.
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