I did it once in a PA28-140. Took forever to get up there, and climbing into a headwind, I think I was down to a groundspeed of like 50 knots or so at the top of climb. It was a crystal clear day and the view was awesome.
I don't recall my leaning procedure, I did it quite a few years ago. I do recall the climb rate was pretty crappy nearing the top. And coming down with power makes a lot of sense.