Couple random questions for Vagabond operators

[Slow-n-low]

Got a PA-15 in my shop for some odds and ends with the option to procure and trying to decide if I wanna keep it. Has a c-85, metal prop, and really goes. Been playing around with it and curious about a couple things. What power off descent rates are you guys seeing at pattern speeds ? Do you notice any resistance rolling them around on the ground ? It feels like pushing a much heavier plane around like there is some tow in or out going on. Wheels independently roll freely, no brakes dragging. Doesn’t seem to have any ground handling issues, taxis straight, rolls out straight on landing, not nearly as squirrely as I expected it to be for its short length and having rigid gear. Tires have hundreds of landings on them and are worn very evenly.

[tnowak]

Hi Slow-n-low,
Vagabonds have 1.5 deg of toe in and this does make them feel heavier than they actually are when pushing around on a hangar floor.
Also, if the tyres are a bit under inflated it makes them feel even heavier!
My hangar has a really smooth concrete floor and I can really feel the difference when I push my Vag forward if tyres are at 10 PSI or if pumped up to 17 PSI.
I only have an A65 and would like more HP, so a C85 Vag will definitely climb a bit better at MAUW.
I have never measured my descent rate but it feels completely normal to me.
Key is getting the approach speed correct, trim correct and engine at correct idle, otherwise a Vag can tend to float a bit.
I approach at 60-63 MPH indicated..
I have never found my Vag "squirrely" at all on grass or concrete, but I do have a Scott 3200 tailwheel.
TonyN

[Slow-n-low]

Thanks for the reply. Glad to hear the toe in is normal. Haven’t checked tires but they seem pretty low. Assumed the owner keeps them that way since it doesn’t have shock struts. My hangar has epoxy floor, pushing the little vag feels like a cirrus sr22. Gotta try to find more time to play with it. Have been trying to figure out what speed or attitude would give me minimum sink rate, and wondering about what rate I should expect. A little control movement goes a long way in this thing. I’m always more comfortable when I have confidence I can get something to the ground where I want it and as slow as possible without power should the need arise.