Reduce RPM to "coast" in long descent?

I don't recall a VFR flight being REQUIRED to descend at a minimum
speed/rate. See and avoid applies regardsless of the hemispheric rule.
If he wants to come down at 200/min instead of 500 or 1000/min, thats
his call. My personal pref is around 500/min but again, its not
mandated. When under IFR I believe there is a requirement to notify ATC
if you cant meet a minimum rate.

Dave


Yes I am sure you are correct. I know its proper/expected IFR piloting
to descend at a minimum 500 fpm but there are issues of rapid cooling
the engine, and 200-300 fpm allows me to make more gradual changes in
engine power and airspeed. A fringe benefit of VFR flight I enjoy is a
more gradual descent.

This descent will be mostly on an airway and I hope with Flight
Following. I guess that it is safer to be in a constant descent for 12
minutes rather than 25 even if it is out over the Atlantic Ocean.

I think I DID find the answer in my pilot handbook. The range curves
show significant increase in range with the same MP and lower RPM.
Manifold pressure 22" and 1800 RPM for example. In descent the reduced
power would be made up for by gravity for a more constant airspeed. I
think I will try this.

Still like to hear what other people do.