TW instruction in a -4?

[RBD]

I've used the search function and have learned that the rear pedals from Van's are not ideal. Are they adequate to do flight/transition training with? I do not currently have my TW endorsement, and the tentative plan is to do a few hours of dual in Ran's Coyote until I have a beginner's grasp of what I'm doing. We would then move to the -4, and I would fly backseat until my instructor is comfortable switching places. Does this sound like a reasonable plan to you guys, and are the rear pedals effective enough to do this? My last question: how much work is involved installing the pedals?

[ddurakovich]

I did my transition training in a -6, and then a week later did the first flight in my -4. It was a non-event.

I'm afraid the view (lack of) and lack of access to ALL of the controls and instruments (critical) could be more problematic in the rear seat of the -4 than just doing it in a side by side.

[Mel]

but like Dave says, flying a -4 from the back seat is NOT ideal. I've done it. Take-offs and landings are not fun.

[larryj]

I tried something similar and couldn't find an instructor nor insurance to go along with the idea. So I bought a Super Decathlon and all is well. I'd say if you can find an instructor and insurance (or do without) go-for-it. Having said that, I'm glad I did what I did with the 8KCAB.

[jump4way]

I'm currently in the same situation of trying to get a tailwheel endorsement and RV training for an RV4 I am buying. The route I went is to get training from Mike Seager in the RV7. The insurance is requiring 10 hours of dual in an RV so I am getting that and my endorsement at the same time.

I am about half way through my training as I type this and highly recommend this option. As an instructor of sorts myself, I consider Mike to be an excellent instructor.

Besides, you can't beat killing two birds with one stone.

[N55CU]

Take what you can get! I was fortunate enough to get almost 50 hrs in the back of my friends RV-8 and got to where I could land and takeoff without scaring both of us too bad! When it was time for me to fly my RV-7 for the first flight, because I could now see what was going on and I was used to the handling characterisitics, the first flight was no issue! Any RV flying you can get will help because nothing fly's like an RV! I come from all types of the single and twin versions of GA flying and I am now an RV snob!
Thank you Van's
Randy Utsey
RV-7 / N55CU
Charlotte, N.C.

[RVFlyer]

I'd also like to put in a plug for Alex De Dominicis. I spent a couple of days with Alex in Dallas after I bought my -4. He has a nice set up and after some hours with him in his -6, I was comfortable tackling the -4 on my own.

His website: www.rvtraining.com

[RBD]

Sounds like a visit to Mike, Alex, or probably Jan since he is in FL might be worked into the plan.

Anyone here retrofit rear pedals? Major surgery or fairly minor? Drilling holes to route the pushrods seems to be fairly easy, but I'm not so sure about the attach points for the pedals. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

[RVCFI]

I give training in your aircraft. RV's, Rockets. I travel to you free via the airlines, also first flights. 20 years in RV's. Many satisfied customers including RV-4's. 815 -519-3087

[Kiwi]

Can anyone describe/post pictures of a decent rear rudder pedal set-up in an RV-4 with brakes?

Thanks,
Andrew.