I've never flown a Cherokee 235 before, but in the 140 thru 180 models,
but on a paved runway, leaving the flaps fully retracted during the
takeoff roll and kicking in the first notch at rotation always made for
a very good-feeling solid takeoff. I prefer to begin rotation at Vx to
ensure plenty of flying speed. The Cherokees don't seem to eager to
leave the ground until you've got that much airspeed anyway.

Well, today we flew to Davenport, IA. A cold front had come through last
night, and all of that thick, hot, juicy air is back down south (where it
can *stay*), leaving behind cool, crisp, clean, lovely Canadian air in its
wake.

Wow, what a difference! It's like having 100 extra horsepower! We
literally jumped off the runway after an incredibly short roll, and were
soon climbing out at 1500 fpm. No skipping down the runway this time, even
though the weight and configuration were exactly the same.

Of course, with everything all stirred up by the frontal passage, the air
was rough as a cob, but visibility was a zillion miles. Once we got to
altitude it was smooth and drop-dead, take-your-breath-away beautiful.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"