Prop to High RPM on downwind

"Mitty" wrote in message
...
I've been taught to set the prop to high RPM on final, but I don't
like this very much because then, when I run my checklist for the
first time on downwind, I have to leave one item "open."

So what's wrong with doing it on downwind? (This in a Cherokee 6 or
and Arrow) It seems to work fine, does not disarrange the engine, etc.
I suppose there is some small noise increase, but hardly much.

So (1) is everyone taught to do it on final? (2) Why? (3) What's wrong
with doing it on downwind?

TIA

There's ALWAYS a problem if one learns to do something mechanical
without understanding the reason for it. Not recommended. Here are some
possibilities, pro and con:

If your engine quits, you want the propeller the prop already at low
rpm, to lower drag. On the other hand if you have to abort the landing
and go around, you want it on high rpm for added low-speed thrust.

Always ask WHY? (You may have to try several instructors until you get a
reasonable answer.) Don't just memorize checklists mindlessly.

John Lowry
Flight Physics