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-   -   Routinely using an RV-6A for a 420 NM trip (https://vansairforce.net/community/showthread.php?t=166588)

SPX 12-05-2018 04:12 PM

Routinely using an RV-6A for a 420 NM trip
 
I am considering purchasing an RV-6A for a 420 NM trip, each way, about 3x per month. I?d fly it day VFR only.

Can I get some feedback/opinions as to the suitability of the airplane for this type of trip? I?m 5?10?, 180 LBS, AND 32? inseam. How about comfort for the roughly 3 hours aloft that this trip would take? How much storage space for a suitcase will I find in an RV-6A?

Any RV-6A owners in SoCal that might be willing to talk to me, or take me up for a ride in theirs? Also I?d be up for any leads on aircraft that you may know of that would fit what I?m looking for.

Many thanks!

DeltaRomeo 12-05-2018 04:27 PM

Autopilot = yes? Easy trip in a 6A.

You and I are roughly the same weight (me 168lbs). Exact same height (5'10"). I fly an RV-6 1.5 hrs down to Houston from DFW to see my sister every so often. Painless down and back.

Taking out the passenger seat back will give you all the baggage room you would ever want.

The toughest part IMHO will be finding VFR on all your trips out near San Diego.

Welcome aboard the Good Ship VAF as Mike S. says, and good luck with your search. If you're every in DFW look me up - we'll go fly the -6.

v/r,dr

Jonathan Alvord 12-05-2018 04:35 PM

Should be a breeze. I have been doing 750mile trips from AZ to Wa since May/June. not necessarily 3 times a week but the RV 7A is perfect for it. Recommend an autopilot! Beats driving!

N941WR 12-05-2018 05:53 PM

I commuted from Greenville, SC to Pearland, TX 720 Nautical miles each way every other week. The RV works great for such trips!

I miss that Texas gang, great bunch of people!

Kyle Boatright 12-05-2018 06:06 PM

That's a great 2.5 - 3 hour trip in a -6.

Boyd Birchler 12-05-2018 06:20 PM

I'm 70 pounds heavier and an inch taller. Wife and I swap out legs. We just flew a 10,700 NM trip in our 7 earlier this summer (perimeter of lower 48 states).

For all intents, the 7 cockpit is the same size as the 6 (It has lower seat pans but we need 4 1/2" rigid foam under the existing seat cushions in order to see over the nose, so in our case the extra seat pan depth is of no value).

Some builders with hanging peddles moved them closer to the pilot, a few moved them further away. In any event that can be changed if needed.

Autopilots are so cheap now days (used) that they are a must have item on long XC's. Also on my list is a CS prop and gear leg dampeners...

sahrens 12-05-2018 06:23 PM

I just flew from Garden City KS to N California via Gallup NM and Lancaster CA in one day in a RV-7. Different model but almost the same size. While I was tired at the end of the day I wasn?t ever uncomfortable. Good seat cushions are the key.

Good luck with your search, you will love your RV.

gmohr 12-05-2018 06:29 PM

We fly our 6A from S17 to KBHM routinely and it is easy. I am 5'10" 180lbs.
We can pack enough clothes for a week and still have room for the dog carrier.

SPX 12-05-2018 07:04 PM

Thank you for the great replies.
Is it safe to say that I should see 150+ KTAS on ~9 GPH?

Billythekid 12-05-2018 07:10 PM

rv6 fit
 
there is a rv6a at ksdm that has a few folks watching over its care.. if you go down to eaa ch14 and ask around ? you might get a opportunity to sit in it and see how things fit. pm me and I may be able to arrange something. just trying to be on the square and level... billythekid


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