[Leica] IMG: Globe/Temco Swifts

[Jim Nichols]

A flight of three beautiful Swift aircraft visited our airport this morning.
http://www.gallery.leica-users.org/v/OldNick/Swifts.jpg.html

These all had different modifications.  Each had larger engines. All had 
the original control wheels replaced by fighter-like control sticks.  
This one was closest to the original appearance, polished aluminum.
http://www.gallery.leica-users.org/v/OldNick/Polished+Swift.jpg.html

It was the only one that had the window left open for a panel shot.
http://www.gallery.leica-users.org/v/OldNick/Swift+Panel.jpg.html

It also had the original leading edge slot to maintain better flow over 
the ailerons at low speeds.
http://www.gallery.leica-users.org/v/OldNick/Slots+Open.jpg.html

The red Swift had the slots closed.  The Swift has long led to a lot of 
hangar talk about these slots.  Most agree that there is not much speed 
to be gained by closing them unless a lot of horsepower has been added, 
resulting in speeds above 170 mph.  Everyone seems to hold to his own 
opinion about how closing the slots affects stall characteristics.
http://www.gallery.leica-users.org/v/OldNick/Slots+Closed.jpg.html

All photos by my iPhone.

Comments and critiques welcomed.

-- 
Jim Nichols
Tullahoma, TN USA