Electric trim in the 180/185 series is on par with the utility of an autopilot as both are net negatives. They add weight and complexity to the aircraft yet neither actually do anything to enhance aircraft capability. I put items such as these in the “pilot mod” column as they are typically installed to cover for the pilot (my opinion based on 40 years of teaching, instructing and evaluating).
When discussing opinion, it is important to understand the perspective from which it is drawn. I have flown my 180H for over 4000 well documented hours, (mostly on skis), with over 3000 of those hours loaded with 110 gallons at T/O, full survival gear, scientific gear and the scientist (in the back seat) while doing low level work for 7 hours straight. Never did I desire electric trim. Load the 180/185 with a more efficient and performance improving CG (hint, it’s aft) and you will reduce the demands and movements of the trim system. If flying is a workout, the aircraft is telling you that it is not in harmony with the laws of physics in which it was designed.
I did require more fuel along with precise fuel management to increase both range and endurance (as well as the 3190 up gross to stay legal). An Alaska SkyPod belly tank mated with an EI FP5 fuel flow solved that along with the Kenmore 3190 STC. No need for GPS interface, a simple watch does fine. These are three examples of modifications that increase aircraft capability for this specific mission.
As for the thread title, I am a fan of the Sportsman/Micro combination. These provide me with what I deem solid control authority in maneuvering flight while operating in the lower speed portion of the envelope, another of my requirements to effectively accomplish my mission. They do this while adding negligible weight and no complexity to the airframe. The improvements in takeoff and landing performance are welcomed, however, that is not my primary objective. I have the Cub for that requirement when needed. And yes, I flew this 180 for hundreds of hours before installing these modifications.
Wing extensions are often discussed. I did not extend the wings nor place aux fuel in the wings due to the moment arm and resultant reduction in roll control which is an indisputable fact of physics. This is a mission specific decision. There is a place for wing extensions, I presently run them on our Ag-Cat, different mission, much different terrain and maneuvering requirements, however, there is no fuel out in those extensions for obvious reasons.
Let the mission drive the mods. If the mod in question does nothing to enhance aircraft/mission capability, it is best to convert that allocated money into fuel thus improving one’s ability and proficiency. I include these thoughts with the objective of balance, demonstrating there is typically more than one route to the destination. The most important piece is actually knowing where one is going.
TR
