Couple questions regarding RPM's & Warning Lt.

[Goatman24 2]

I've noticed that my RPM's instrument dial appears to be stuck on 27.5 virtually until I lower the throttle to less than 50%. Should this be normal? Also, one time when landing I had a warning light come up, beep and then shut off and I don't know what it was for. I've attached a picture to show where it's located. It's the "M" orange light which is not lit in the picture. Notice where the RPM gauge is at. Happy New Year everyone!!!!Mitch

[Skycaptain93 0]

I've noticed that my RPM's instrument dial appears to be stuck on 27.5 virtually until I lower the throttle to less than 50%. Should this be normal? Also, one time when landing I had a warning light come up, beep and then shut off and I don't know what it was for. I've attached a picture to show where it's located. It's the "M" orange light which is not lit in the picture. Notice where the RPM gauge is at. Happy New Year everyone!!!!Mitch

Hi Mitch,The Bonanza is equipped with a constant speed propeller which in terms means that you control power output with the manifold pressure and propeller rpms with the propeller pitch control. Heres some good tips when you are flying your bonanza. After takeoff First reduce your power to 25 INS Manifold Pressure and then reduce the propeller to 2,500 rpms. Once you are in cruise, go ahead and reduce manifold pressure to 22 INS and 2,300 rpms, that gives you the best endurance and cruise speed in the bonanza. Now remember, and this is the way real world pilots do it. When you want to reduce power reduce manifold pressure first and then prop. When you want to add power increase prop and then increase throttle that way you dont put a load on the engine by having the manifold pressure higher than rpms. I know its alot to comprehend but thats complex aircraft 101 for you.

[All 0]

The 'M' light is the middle marker beacon, which provides you information about your distance from the runway in some ILS approaches: Check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Instrument_landing_system#Marker_beacons. Al

[Goatman24 2]

Good information from both you guys. Thanks for the input. I'm learning. Happy New Year!!Mitch