MD11 braking question

[Guest sssspecialista]

Hi to all!!I have one simple question about a braking issue (if it is simulated I mean)Is there any difference with autobrake at MED for example in terms of braking distance between having the center landing gear down or not? Suposely with two more wheels down, the plane should stop in less meters.And the other question is... do the companies land with this centre gear always down, or there are moments when it is not necessary?Regards

[Guest cfgarrod]

No, the aircraft is always operated with center gear down.There are severe operating limitations including a big reduction in maximum authorised weights if it is retracted.For example max take-off weight is reduced by about 80,000 Kgs.I believe early DC10's had no center gear and it was added for the long range version...?Chris G

[tcas_climb 45]

Hi AlvaroRemember, autobrake functions by maintaining a RATE of deceleration, only MAX setting uses a constant pressure. Therefore with the center gear retracted, you will still get the same rate of deceleration but it means the autobrake will apply more pressure to achieve the required rate of deceleration.

[Guest sssspecialista]

Now everything is clear... thank you very much.Regards