The FAA has authorized an STC allowing the installation of micro vortex generators on the wings and stabilizer of the Taylorcraft. With the addition of the vortex generators, stall speed for the Taylorcraft is reduced 5 mph and the aircraft shows dramatic improvement in slow flight handling and characteristics.

Taylorcraft Micro VG Kits consist of 80 vortex generators which are mounted on the upper wing surface, just aft of the leading edge, and another 32 that are secured to the bottom surface of the horizontal stabilizer, just forward of the elevator. Kits also include installation tools, detailed drawings and instructions, templates for positioning the VGs, spares, Loctite Depend adhesive for securing them to the aircraft surface, and all other materials required for an easy one day installation.

The vortex generators create vortices that keep the boundary layer attached to the flying surfaces in slow flight, allowing a higher angle of attack and lower stall speed. In the cases of Taylorcrafts on floats, the VGs substantially shorten the takeoff run. There is no measurable effect on high speed performance and they do not collect ice.

VGs, which have been common to jet aircraft for decades, are made of 6063-T6 aluminum. One inch long and a quarter-inch high, they are curved to match wing contour and come flat for stabilizer surfaces. To make them ready for painting, they are alodined to a Boeing mil spec.

Taylorcraft VG Kits sell for $695, plus shipping and handling. For an additional $100, the VGs can be painted to match an aircraft�s base color, provided the paint name and number are available. The kits can be ordered from Micro AeroDynamics.

FMI: www.microaero.com