FSX Grumman G-164 AgCat B/600 On Floats

This freeware release delivers a float-equipped Grumman G-164 Super AgCat B/600 powered by a Pratt & Whitney 600 HP R-1340-AN1 radial engine. It includes custom textures representing two Canadian operators—Vancouver Island Air serving British Columbia’s coastal region and Rusty Myers supporting remote locations in Northwestern Ontario’s Wabakimi Provincial Park. The package incorporates a base model from Bill Holker, a meticulously updated cockpit with both a virtual cockpit and 2D pop-up interfaces, flight behavior refined for spin capability, and an authentic R-1340 soundset by Warwick Carter. New visual elements and flight dynamics were crafted by Vladimir Gonchar.

Floatplane Configuration and Custom Additions

This specific adaptation simulates a floatplane variant, enabling water-based takeoffs and landings. Two distinct paint schemes are included: one referencing Vancouver Island Air, which operates across coastal British Columbia, and another reflecting Rusty Myers, a carrier known for delivering essential services to remote Canadian outposts. Beyond new liveries, there are refined gauges for realistic engine management, carefully tuned flight files, and specialized panels compatible with wide-screen monitors.

Performance Specifications

Airspeed Parameters (Calibrated):
Vs (stall): 60 mph
Vne (never exceed): 147 mph
Va (maneuvering): 117 mph

Structural Constraints: +4.2 to -1.0 G
Engine Limits: Takeoff settings of 36.0 in. Hg at sea level with 2250 RPM delivering 600 HP for a maximum of 5 minutes. Continuous power ranges from 34.0 in. Hg (sea level) down to 32.5 in. Hg (around 5000 ft.) at 2200 RPM for 550 HP.

Aircraft Geometry and Weight Details

Wing Span (upper): 42 ft 3 in
Wing Area: 392 sq ft
Length (on floats): 25 ft 11 in
Height (on floats): 11 ft
Empty Weight: 3,210 lb
Maximum Weight: 4,500 lb (expandable to 6,075 lb)

Fuel Capacity: 80 gallons

Recommendations for Flight

• Rotation typically occurs at 65-70 mph.
• For an optimal climb, set 35 in. Hg/2200 RPM and maintain about 90 mph.
• Normal cruise settings hover around 25-30 in. Hg/2000 RPM, yielding about 100-120 mph.
• Approach comfortably at 70-75 mph, touching down near 65 mph.
• During water taxi, remain below 1500 RPM to ensure stable handling.

Cockpit Notes and Systems

The 3D cockpit model features a limited set of operational click areas, so there are extra 2D panels to control aspects like the prop lever, mixture, and other engine functionality. Water rudders have been reconfigured in the aircraft configuration file to function properly, but they remain lowered at all times. The default payload arrangement includes the pilot, two front-seat passengers, baggage weight of around 100 kg, and the full 80-gallon fuel load.

Engine Start Guidance

For anyone seeking a detailed procedure rather than relying on the standard Ctrl+E quick start, use these steps:

1. Switch Fuel Control to ON.
2. Select Mixture to FULL RICH.
3. Propeller Control fully forward.
4. Open Throttle about 1/8 inch.
5. Ensure Carb Heat is OFF.
6. Engage Master Switch.
7. Pressurize the fuel system manually (8-10 pump strokes) or use the optional electric boost pump to attain at least 3 psi (the lower band of the green arc).
8. Prime if Cylinder Head Temperature is below 50°C (skip if at or above 50°C).
9. Set Ignition Switch to ON BOTH.
10. Press Starter until the engine catches.
11. Shut off the boost pump once the engine is running.
12. Verify proper Oil Pressure.

Installation Instructions

• Extract all included material and place the files from the FSX folder into your main Microsoft Flight Simulator X directory.

Developers and Contributors

This project is built upon the 3D modeling work of Bill Holker, complemented by a superb Pratt & Whitney R-1340 sound pack from Warwick Carter. The new flight dynamics, virtual cockpit adjustments, and repaints were provided by Vladimir Gonchar.

Acknowledgment

This endeavor is wholeheartedly dedicated to Vladimir’s wife, Anna, who has shown unwavering patience and support.