If you're willing to spend the time, you too can significantly increase the speed of most any aircraft. In Speed with Economy, Kent Paser takes you through every aspect of drag reduction using his Mustang-II as an example. (Somewhat similar to Van's RVs.) Flat plate and other types of aerodynamic drag are discussed as are cooling drag, exhaust systems and over 100 other hidden contributors of slow flight. Highly applicable and interesting, even if you don't have the time.

Topics Include:

• Building My Mustang-II
• Engine Exhaust System Modifications
• Engine Intake System Modifications
• Engine Cooling System Modification
• Aerodynamic Cleanup and Drag Reduction
• Propeller Experimentation and Development
• Miscellaneous Performance Improvement Modifications
• Performance Improvement Results

Reader Reviews:
This is a thoughtful, organized and well-written book expressly for aircraft hobbyists. Kent Paser took his garden verity homebuilt (admittedly it was nicely speedy just as it came) and over many years “hot-rodded” it; keeping notes and documenting what worked, and in what combination. It isn’t just about aerodynamics, but it is all about aircraft efficiency – he explores the practical aspects of aerodynamic cleanliness, cooling drag and engine efficiency in a enormously readable text that can be readily comprehended and applied by nearly anyone capable of building and/or maintaining the plane in the first place.
…Geriatric Suthruner

This text is a very comprehensive annotation of the experimental processes that the author used to increase the performance of his experimental amateur built airplane. One of the most likable features of the book is that it contains both quantitative as well as qualitative performance metrics. The author reduces cross-correlation among his many speed and economy modifications so the reader is able to judge the efficacy of each modification. The book is truly one that I would recommend any experimental amateur airplane builder have in his or her library. The recommendations made in the book are doable and documented fairly well. Some of the photographs are difficult to study and, hence, I awarded it only 4 out of 5 stars. A very solid textbook!
…Peter Capani