Aussie Mustangs

[inkworm]

how much extra weight did it add as it would surly mess up the center of gravity

[gamary]

Thanks for the answer, Graeme.

@Inkworm: after reading your question, I went and checked the data before shooting my mouth off but (and this happens from time to time, happily ) my first reaction was correct: a turboprop is generally lighter than a piston engine.

Merlin 61: 744 kg
Dart 506: 386 kg

Which would have screwed up the CG some, put it's easier to advance a lighter engine than to move a heavier one backwards...

[inkworm]

So accounting for the alterations and firewall that you mention the combined weight may well have still been less than the Merlin but come close to it, I'd hazard a guess that the CG wasn't really affected, just visually looks like it!

[GrubbyFingers]

Hi Guys,

I've since found out it DID get as far as engine runs on the ground, but never flew.

It was estimated it could be good for 500mph.

CG wasn't affected, thus the positioning. Think of the Pilatus Porter and Turbo-Porter. Same deal. A lighter engine moved well forward gives an unchanged CG.

Grubby.