1. "Ruin" is too harsh. Render unappealing to the tail-dragger fraternity, maybe?
2. The distance on take-off to break ground. Would there be any difference between a standard, say 172A, and the same model converted to tailwheel?
Incrementally, you'd think the straight 172 would have the edge.
3. Years ago at Cootamundra, Arthur Schutt (Cessna dealer from Melbourne) came in with his brand new C182B.
He said to Jack Masling, who had the Cessna agency at Coota, he said his job would get off 50 yards or better before Jack's 172. You're on said Jack, pulling 20 quid out of his wallet.
Side by side they commenced their run, Jack with his horny old right hand on the big lever. At probably round 30 knots he hauled on enough to win the bet comfortably.
Last edited by Fantome; 24th Jan 2014 at 00:34.