On Jul 16, 10:39 am, "Hilton" wrote:
Robert wrote:
Its funny to me that so many people talk about Harris Ranch as a tiny
runway. I've often been asked if its paved! Gees, its a first class
airport with regular King Air traffic. The runway is 2 to 3 times the
required length for most of us. However, I'm not sure why they would
grade both sides of the runway to put in a taxiway. I'm not a
construction guy, maybe this is all just for runoff?

Well, when I take a 172 there, my wingtips are off the sides of the runway,
so it is narrow, length isn't a problem at all - assuming you can fly to
Private standards. Actually, on the trip I took there a few days ago was
the first time (I think) that I have ever done a go-around after landing.
There was a strong cross-wind, I got the Arrow down, but just wasn't
comfortable. Second landing was 'perfect'. Landed 14, did a 180 at the
end, and taxied back, a taxiway would have helped. For those King Airs you
mention, I wonder what their turning radius it? Probably pretty small,
crank up one engine and tap the other brake, probably turns on a dime.

Well Robert, I guess it is my responsibility to monitor the situation and
report back.

Hilton (Looking for any reason to get back to Harris Ranch)

Yea, the winds were 10G15 knots almost across the runway when I was
there on Sunday. I could see that being interesting in a C-172. In the
Mooney I've never really experienced crosswind in the flare. Even
landing at Blythe with 30 knots cross wind I didn't feel any crosswind
once I got into the flare. I'm not sure if its because of the Mooney's
higher landing speed or if its because the wings are so low to the
ground that the wind is disrupted by brush. The flip side is that you
can't drain the fuel tanks without getting some gravel in your knees.

-Robert