Engine management ( I need speed )

[SYN_MrWolf]

Hello guys,

 

I am trying to dogfight in my P51 against the AI P51. But for some reason my speed bleeds away very quickly and I can't seem to get my speed back. The AI plane constantly has more speed then me and has the upperhand.

 

Is there a way to get the most speed out of my engine as possible? What am I doing wrong?

[PeterP]

Do you operate also the motor RPM ?

- or are you only using the throttle (manifold pressure)?

 

To envelop the most acceleration you have to use both levers.

 

and be prepared to keep also an eye at the engine cooling once the engine-wear is implemented in the beta.

 

Edit:

 

Using the quickstart 1v1 is a killer :

Opponent starts high at your 6 ... and the AI has Über-skills to determined your vector.

So maybe choose a live-friendlier setting via the editor.

 

 

my current axis settings for the engine management (make sure you can operate throttle + RPM without hassle and simultaneously):

Edited May 5, 2012 by PeterP

[SYN_MrWolf]

Thanks PeterP,

 

I guess I have to experiment with that.

[Hamblue]

Learning energy management is the biggest step. Also try taking off with 25% fuel. and no drop tanks That will lighten the plane up significantly.

[flightace37]

I'd go with more than 25% fuel or you'll have to relearn how to fight with a heavier load. Try 50%, which will leave the aux tank empty as it should be in combat, and drain a little bit out of the main fuel tanks. Give the AI max fuel, and that should give you a good performance difference to work with.

 

The real trick is simply not pulling on the pole so hard. The P-51 likes to stay above 200 mph wherever and whenever possible. When you get it slow (below about 180), you start losing a LOT of turn performance. Fly geometry rather than muscle, and look around for the pdf book "In Pursuit" on Google. It's freely available, and a great resource for the budding combat pilot.

 

Further reading would be "Fighter Combat: Tactics and Maneuvering" by Robert L. Shaw, which you can buy on Amazon, or in a bookstore. Be warned though; it's very technical.

 

When I mentioned that 200 mph figure, don't let it restrict you from going slower over the top of a loop. That's normal behavior. Also pay attention to trim and smoothness of control, as well as maintaining coordinated flight. All are critical in minimizing energy losses in combat.