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-   -   Weight control... (https://vansairforce.net/community/showthread.php?t=35037)

Kevin Horton 10-14-2008 04:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by N941WR (Post 263218)
Unless you use a composite (wood) prop. My Catto is 9 lbs vs. 40 lbs for a metal FP prop.

The numbers presented on the Van's web site are a good tell. The RV-9 numbers are all for FP prop whereas the RV-7 numbers are all for CS props.

The GW climb for a FP O-320 RV-9 is 1400 FPM and the GW climb for a CS O-320 RV-7 is 1400 FPM. (1650 FPM / 180 HP & 1900 FPM / 200 HP)

If you use the data from Van's web site as a comparison, don't forget that not only is the prop different, the wing is different too. If everything else is equal, an aircraft with longer wing span will have a higher climb rate than one with shorter wing span. So, an RV-9 should be able to out climb an RV-7, if both had the same engine and prop.

Webb 10-14-2008 05:47 AM

Look in mirror
 
My recommendation, take a good hard look in the mirror. I know that I need to lose 25 pounds (and I'm working on it - heading to the gym this morning). Your heart will appreciate you and you have a better chance of keeping your medical. You might even live longer!!

For the fit folks, you have to put your plane on the diet.

N941WR 10-14-2008 09:56 AM

Weight control...
 
This was posted on Van's first flight list:
Quote:

Originally Posted by Van's
From: Kevin McCormick
To: webmaster@vansaircraft.com
Subject: First Flight
Date sent: Mon, 6 Oct 2008
Serial # 23648 RV-6

After 12 Years 10 months and 23 days my plane finally made its first flight on September 25th 2008.

Empty weight is 944#
Engine 150 HP O320
Wood Prop
Simple steam gauges purchased from Van’s
Normal flight instruments
Manual flaps
ICOM portable radio panel mounted

My goal was to keep it simple and light. It flies like the RV7 I flew when I took my transition training with Mike. I really don’t have anyone to thank, the entire plane was completed by me, every rivet. My wife has never been supportive and still is not. My children were too young when I started and have never had any interest in it.

I do want to thank everyone at Van’s aircraft for the support during the construction.

944 pounds! We all have something to learn from Mr. McCormick!

Kyle Boatright 10-14-2008 05:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by N941WR (Post 263358)
This was posted on Van's first flight list:

944 pounds! We all have something to learn from Mr. McCormick!

If that weight includes all the fairings, paint, and a decent set of cushions in both seat, that is an impressively light aircraft. Looking at my 1030 pound, 0-320, wood prop, Piper Cub paneled RV-6, I just don't see any way to get 85 lbs out of my aircraft to match that one. 50, maybe, but 85? Wow.

Estimating the "extra weight" in my airplane and what could be saved by a more weight conscious person:

Carpet 8 lbs.
Too-heavy primer 10 lbs
Too-heavy paint 10 lbs.
Thick cushions 10 lbs.
Heavy starter 8 lbs

Total: 46 lbs.

Subtracting that from my airplane's weight results in 985 lbs. Where does that other 40 lbs of savings come from?

RichB 10-14-2008 05:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by N941WR (Post 263358)
This was posted on Van's first flight list:

944 pounds! We all have something to learn from Mr. McCormick!

Reading the rest of his post, I'd say we all have A LOT to learn from Mr McCormick about perseverance. He built it right, took almost 13 years to first flight, and did it without family support. That's hard yards right there.

hohocc 10-15-2008 11:33 AM

944 pounds, very impressed!
It seems to me from the posts here weight control (for the aeroplane at least!), is all about the basics, a minimum of gadgets on the panel, prop choice, starter/ alternator options, paint and comfort items inside. Thanks for all your replies to my question, and if anybody has anything else to add I look forward to it.
Craig

whifof100ll 10-15-2008 05:45 PM

Catto and Acro
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by N941WR (Post 263218)
Unless you use a composite (wood) prop.
Other than doing acro or formation work, I have to wonder if the CS prop is worth the cost, maintenance, and weight.

I think the lighter weight prop enhances the feel of an RV-6 and is great for Acro.


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