By Chuck Dome
Here’s my latest version of a Beechcraft Bonanza V35B for FS2004. To install, unzip the ZIP file into the main subfolder of FS2002 (where the FS9.EXE file resides). In that way, the custom gauges will be placed automatically in the correct subfolder. DO NOT unzip the package into the \AIRCRAFT subfolder of FS2002, and be sure to duplicate the original folder structure when unzipping.
HISTORY
The distinctive Model 35 Bonanza is one of general aviation’s most famous and prolific types, and enjoyed a production life spanning four decades.
The Bonanza first flew on December 22 1945. Featuring metal construction, retractable undercarriage and high performance, it heralded a new class of high performance GA aircraft. The design also featured the distinctive V-tail, incorporated for aerodynamic efficiency and reduced weight. Deliveries of production aircraft began in 1947.
Subsequent development led to a significant family of subtypes. Briefly these are the A35 of 1949 with a greater max takeoff weight; the B35 with a 146kW (196hp) E1858 engine; the 153kW (205hp) E18511 powered C, D and E models through to 1954; the F and G35 with third cabin window and 170kW (225hp) E2258 of the mid fifties; the 180kW (240hp) Continental O470G powered H35 of 1957; the fuel injected 187kW (250hp) powered J35; 1960’s M35 with larger rear windows; and the N35 and P35 with a 195kW (260hp) IO470N and greater max takeoff weight.
Then followed the redeveloped S35 of 1964 with six seats and redesigned rear cabin, optional three blade prop, 215kW (285hp) IO520B engine and yet greater weights; the heavier V35 of 1966; and turbocharged V35TC; V35A and V35ATC of 1968 with more raked windscreen; and the V35B and V35BTC (just seven built) from 1970. The V35B remained in production until 1982 and underwent a number of detail changes in that time.
SPECIFICATIONS
Powerplants
D35 – One 153kW (205hp) Continental E18511 flat six piston engine driving a two blade constant speed propeller. P35 – One 195kW (260hp) fuel injected Continental IO470N. V35TC – One 210kW (285hp) turbocharged and fuel injected Continental TSIO520D.
Performance
D35 – Max speed 306km/h (165kt), cruising speed 281km/h (152kt). Initial rate of climb 1100ft/min. Range with no reserves 1247km (673nm). P35 – Max speed 330km/h (178kt), cruising speed 306km/h (165kt). Initial rate of climb 1150ft/min. Range with optional fuel and no reserves 1955km (1056nm). V35TC – Max speed 386km/h (208kt), max cruising speed 360km/h (194kt), long range cruising speed 262km/h (141kt). Initial rate of climb 1225ft/min. Range with standard fuel and reserves 917km (495nm), with opt fuel 1770km (955nm).
Weights
D35 – Empty 760kg (1675lb), max takeoff 1236kg (2725lb). P35 – Empty 841kg (1855lb), max takeoff 1418kg (3125lb). V35TC – Empty 907kg (2000lb), max takeoff 1542kg (3400lb).
Dimensions
D35 – Wing span 10.00m (32ft 10in), length 7.67m (25ft 2in). Wing area 16.5m2 (177.6sq ft). P35 – Wing span 10.20m (33ft 6in), length 7.65m (25ft 1in). Wing area 16.8m2 (181sq ft). V35TC – Wing span 10.20m (33ft 6in), length 8.04m (26ft 5in), height 2.31m (7ft 7in). Wing area 16.8m2 (181sq ft).
Capacity
Models 35 through to J35 seat four people, K35 optional fifth passenger, and later models from S35 onwards six people.
Production
Approximately 10,400 Model 35 Bonanzas of all variants were built between 1945 and 1982.
COMMENT
When I saw the latest issue in my mail box I was thrilled to see a Bonanza being modeled! About time I thought to myself, as I unzipped the download to my aircraft folder. The first thing I noticed right away was the size of the file; 11 meg zipped. Plan on a small amount of chop on slower machines. The textures on the aircraft match nicely to the common paint scheme of the aircraft in the late 60’s (red and white). The author did a great job in capturing the overall look of the plane, but seems a little short to my eye. The Flight dynamics are typical of a small single prop and handles smoothly in steep turns and climbs. The instrument panel was a nice representation of the real panel with a few extras; however the virtual cockpit was plain. No moving parts save the landing gear. Over all the author did a nice job capturing the look and feel of this truly unique aircraft, but left out a few things that flight simmers have come to expect these days. I would really like to see an updated version of this craft and certainly recommend it to the collector.
My Rating 6/10
