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Choices determine the cost
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I'm amazed at how much work can now be outsourced: airframe construction (QB or assist), panels, wiring harnesses, super paint jobs for $10k-$20k. That would all add a bit to the finished cost. And I'm also amazed at what CAN go into a panel, lighting, AP, upholstery, after-market fittings etc. The way to keep the cost down "back then" was to: build it the way Van intended it, do most of the work yourself, install a used engine, fixed pitch prop, panel for day VFR, auto engine gauges, possibly second-hand instruments and radio etc. I fly with a couple of buddies, one has an older RV-6, the other a newer RV-7A. This -6 is as simple as it gets with 160 hp. The -7A has a fully integrated IFR panel, custom interior, custom paint job, autopilot and lots of buttons to push and color graphics to watch. Guess which one is more fun to go fly in? ;) |
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Here comes the penny pincher. Slowbuilt 9 no primer no paint, wood prop, used round gages, new (the cheapest) factory engine, every tax, tool, delivery and fee included. Bought some new stuff at reduced price, bought some aftermarket parts at full price. Came at seventy three thousand two hundred eighty plus some change before first flight. Stretched over 5 years. All local hardware store expendables counted. DAR fee included. Selling the tools down the road helped with gas a bit :)
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For some on-topic content, my father (a consummate scrounger) built the RV-6 I am flying for less than $50k all in. It did take him 17 years, but he did *everything* himself. |
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I have a motor that needs disassembly and reassembly(IO-360 FI) but after that, I am currently in south of $20K, not by much. VFR AFS 5600 no autopilot.
Carbon Catto fixed pitch prop. Plan on having the motor parts done professionally and assembling myself with the help of veteran motor guy. If I don't go with the AFS I can subtract another $4K. I scoured the interwebs...it can be done. |
I was about $93K into my first flight. Since then, paint, upholstery, O2 system, etc, etc, has pushed the cost up even higher. I did do just about every upgrade that was available. Van's cost estimator is woefully unrealistic. In the big scheme of things, having a brand new airplane with everything you want on it is priceless.
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No earthly good can come from these evil calculations.
Hobbies do not require financial justification. -Dave |
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