Cheap RV

[RobinHou]

My RV8 is all stock with a new YO-360 from Vans for around $60K. The panel is dirt simple with minimum stuffs. One side benefit I did not anticipate is, when I built my RV cheap, it is painted and very light at 1007 lb.

My previous project RV7A started with an used QB kit with a runout O-360 engine and an used prop for a total of $35K including finishing kit and instruments and minimum avionics. I sold it when I was 90% done to start my RV8.

[TS Flightlines]

I wanted a RV that met my needs, and frankly buying a flying version wasnt in the cards, or the budget at the time. So, slow building, one kit at a time seemed the way to go.
All good intentions and progress was being made.
If you want to go the building route, remember--LIFE and responsibilities can get in the way. It virtually stopped my progress--my own fault, but responsibilities do take priority. I looked into some other options, but the reality is that they all lead to the same thing--time and money.

Tom

[kentlik]

I feel I have a good handle on this one thus far.
If you look and are patient buying an older flying RV will most likely cost less overall.
Having said that, a chunk of cash up front is harder for some people to do, myself included.

Some know here I bought a turn over RV-7, it was in worse shape than I had hoped but not worse than I expected. I was approached by a local gentleman with an SB fuse missing hardware and aft skins and a few other parts. Score! Built an emp from a partially started kit and found a better than core IO-360 in Canada. Have purchased some instruments and trim kit and EI kit already. Way more work, a lot less cash outlay up front.
Lots of hours in, but still ahead I think of a straight slow build.
A rough guess puts me at $18,300. Add a max $3-4K for simple EFIS and whatever engine part checking and recert., $3-8K? Assemble engine myself.
Should be good to go.

[edit: forgot to add engine core cost]

[cropdusterdave]

I think the only really effective way to save money on an RV build is to be a knowledgable A&P to begin with. I had the same mindset. Started my project when I could have qualified for food stamps. Paid for it over the years as I could afford it. Looked for deals and bought a 1,500 hour O-320 core off a tornado wrecked Cherokee. Just had the annual done and good compressions, low oil consumption. Pulled a cylinder and saw some pitting starting on the cam....so it had to come apart. Had a local friend who owns an overhaul shop do the work with a friend discount. Ended up spending the same as I could have bought a crate O-320/360. Also, with the ADSB requirement coming up....an EFIS system is the most cost effective and gives you the best bang for your buck. I ended up with a 160 HP, wood prop driven, single screen Dynon Skyview equipped airplane. Took about 16 years and I probably spent what everybody else did. But it felt pretty great flying it for the first time two weeks ago! Honestly, not having cash readily available to progress through the build without waiting was a major hinderance. I think if you could find a full kit (emp, wings, fuse, finishing, maybe FWF even) that has been abandoned for a decent price, it would be a great way to get going. I hate to say it here...but a Sonex would be a more affordable side-by-side option.

[samray]

cropdusterdave and kentlick both have great posts; so I thought I'd add my 2 cents... When you put together an airplane you will learn an incredible number of skills. In the beginning it's about getting an airplane together fast- we all start that foot race. A few are fast, but that is their thing. In the end you'll realize the journey was the most fun part of it all- you enjoy your hobby's result. Scrape together the money for each kit and save dollars by being careful on the accessories. Van's kits have an amazing dollars for quality. It's noteworthy how the money becomes available to buy the next kit because you've been saving money during the time your were building the last kit. So take your time, do a good job, and you'll have an airplane when it's all over. The hardest part of the journey is just starting! Best of luck!

[Davea320]

Started off with a used slow build -7. Decided it was going to take me forever, but still wanted to build, so looked for a used QB kit. It took a while, but found a QB kit that included the finish kit. It?s still going to take a while to complete, but I can see the end. Have already learned lots of great stuff from other builders and other build sites. So if you want to build, but want to fly (best of both worlds) and have the funds I feel the QB kits are the way to go. You can finish the airplane exactly how you want with a inexpensive engine and vfr instruments or go with a new engine and glass up front. Still lots of options as you build. I looked at several used engines and props. Ended up buying new to avoid the used market variables, but some $ could have been saved there if you have some power plant background. Avionics for me will be latest Dynon since it seems to change daily. That?s just my take. So many choices, so little time.

[flytoday]

Given this is copied from the Original Poster?s VAF profile, any adjustments in the advice?
????????
Biography:
Rock Climber and Mountain biker. 69 years old
Location (City, State):
Elk Grove
Interests:
see above
Occupation:
retired
Your name (First name Last Name):
John Robinson
RV of interest:
12
????????

Carl
..

[rvbuilder2002]

Originally Posted by flytoday

Given this is copied from the Original Poster?s VAF profile, any adjustments in the advice?
????????
Biography:
Rock Climber and Mountain biker. 69 years old
Location (City, State):
Elk Grove
Interests:
see above
Occupation:
retired
Your name (First name Last Name):
John Robinson
RV of interest:
12
????????

Carl
..

If you are asking, because in his profile he says RV of interest is a 12...?

In his post he said "interested in building a side by side RV (that would be an RV-6,7,9 or 14 (not a 12)"

In that context I think everyone's advice has been spot on.

[johnr9q]

An rv-12 is side by side but I am now thinking not an LSA. My age is now 73.

[MsMiner]

What if you want to build and fly? I hear a lot about if you want to build...build, but if you want to fly, then buy. What about those that want to build what they fly, is that an option too?
I ultimately want something that I can go cross country, but also cruises at a good clip. However I like to build and learn as well, is there a camp for me?