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I have been using my '64 Super 21 to travel between Culpeper VA CJR and Dexter MI 2E8 several times last summer. Because 2E8 is 2100 ft grass with displaced thresholds and has a down slope on RWY 6 in the center third of the runway, it has me working on my short field technique quite a lot. I added a lift indicator and train with it to get better at slow flight and stay safe. This training has helped me to identify a glitch that merits further investigation and I decided to ask you all for some advice. During slow flight practice at safe altitudes I noticed the wings fly well right up to the stall then break quickly and recover quickly causing the airplane to porpoise. At altitude this is not a big deal except the break occurs without warning. When this happens near the ground the results are a hard drop and perhaps a bounce. I would like the stall to be softer with some feel to it, if that is possible without too much difficulty, and without loss of cruise performance and fuel economy. I reread Harry Ribletts book about GA airfoils and he suggests a leading edge modification (page 42) to the 64-212 (and similar 64 series airfoils) but makes no mention of a similar modification to the 63 series. Since the Mooney uses the 63-215 airfoil, would a similar modification be of any benefit? It occurred to me that someone else may have had the same questions and may have done some research in this area. So how about it? Do any of you have any ideas here? Before some comments on my lack of flying skills… I recognize that I can simply adjust my technique to not get so close to the stall during slow landings. And I may be left with just that. But admittedly that will leave some low speed performance on the table, not to mention the added safety margin attainable by softening the stall characteristics of the airplane. So I am investigating to see if it is possible. If you can help I am all ears. Petehdgs@yahoo.com

Looking to sell my Cherokee. She is unique and a LOT of fun. She can carry full fuel and at least 4 real adults. Because of her Full STOL kit this Piper can fly and glide while at the same time can take off Amazingly short as well as stop on a dime. This Piper had no issues in grass or camping. Price is $52,250 or best offer. Pics and spec sheet are attached. Martin Piper Pics - Underneath and underwing.zip Piper Pics - Mostly inside - seats and panel.zip Spec Sheet - 1965 Piper Cherokee 180 - PDF Version.pdf