So given that we currently have an earlier Spitfire using only 87 octane fuel:-
With the ABC enabled (normal situation)- The maximum boost obtainable will be +6.25 lbs.
- Once set the selected boost (datum) will be maintained regardless of changes in altitude up to the rated altitude.
- Above rated altitude the pressure will drop off, but the datum point will remain the same.
- Pilot workload is reduced and there is no risk of overboosting the engine.
With the ABC disabled (done by operating the cutout)- The maximum boost obtainable would be +17 lbs @ sea level.
- Any rise above + 6.25 would have disasterous impact on the engine due to pre-ignition of the fuel.
- Provided that the pilot retarded the throttle they would have manual control of the boost, but would have to be careful not to overboost the engine.
- The indicated boost pressure would change as the altitude changed.
Assuming that this is a correct description then from a game design point of view their are a few options.
- The operation of the cutout would only be of value if the game simulated failures to the ABC unit either through the damage model or the physical weathering setting.
- If this was not the case then the cutout option could be removed (Only the sadistic would take pleasure from using the cut-out to intentionally overboost a Merlin)
If any of my assumptions are incorrect then please let me know.
Does this seem like a reasonable analysis of the issue?