GRUMMAN AMERICAN
FOR TRAINING USE ONLY – SECTION 4
MODEL GA-7/COUGAR
NORMAL PROCEDURES
4-19
Issued: April 10, 1978
MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE TAKEOFF
For maximum performance takeoff, the engines should be run up to full power before brake release. For
maximum engine power, the mixture should be adjusted for the field elevation.
WARNING
IF AN ENGINE FAILS, A ONE-ENGINE INOPERATIVE STALL WILL OCCUR AT
AIRSPEEDS LESS THAN 61 KIAS.
When full power is reached, release brakes and begin the takeoff roll with elevator neutral. Lift the nose wheel as
soon as possible and fly off at approximately 61 KIAS. If obstacles are to be cleared after takeoff, accelerate to the
best angle-of-climb speed 81 KIAS (at max weight) until obstacles are cleared. Retract landing gear after positive
rate of climb is established. Refer to Section 5 for airspeed at 50 feet and at reduced weight.
CROSSWIND TAKEOFF
The airplane is accelerated to a speed higher than normal (5 to 10 KIAS), then flown off abruptly to prevent
possible settling back to the runway while drifting. When clear of the ground, make a coordinated turn into the
wind to correct for drift.
ROUGH FIELD OPERATION
Full-throttle run-ups over loose gravel are especially harmful to propeller tips. When takeoffs must be made over
rough surfaces, it is very important that the throttle be advanced slowly. This allows the airplane to start rolling
before high RPM is developed, and the gravel will be blown back of the propeller rather than pulled into it.
ENROUTE CLIMB
Using full throttle and 2700 RPM, a normal climb speed of 95 KIAS at sea level is recommended. Reduce the
airspeed one KIAS per 1000 feet of climb to 85 KIAS at 10,000 feet. This speed offers good visibility, excellent over-
the-ground speed and rate-of-climb speed. The best rate-of-climb speed is 95 KIAS at sea level and 3800 pounds
weight. The best angle-of-climb speed is 81 KIAS at 3800 pounds at sea level. Refer to Section 5 performance
charts for additional speeds and weights.
If it is necessary to climb rapidly to clear mountains or reach favorable winds at high altitudes, the best rate-of-
climb speed (95 KIAS) should be used with maximum power (full throttle and 2700 RPM). The mixture should be
leaned as required for altitude.
If an obstruction ahead requires a steep climb angle, the best angle-of-climb speed (81 KIAS) should be used with
flaps up and maximum power.
The recommended cruise climb speed is 100 KIAS with a manifold pressure setting of 25 in. Hg and engine speed of
2500 RPM. The mixture should be leaned as required for altitude.
CRUISE
The maximum recommended cruise power setting is 75 percent of the rated horsepower (full throttle @ 2700
RPM @ 8500 Feet) (24 in. Hg. manifold pressure @ 2500 @ 5000 feet). True airspeeds, which are determined by
the particular altitude and power setting chosen, can be obtained from the table in Section 5.