Craig23
Well Known Member
Hello everyone,
My RV-8 finally flew today on a beautiful, calm morning in Santa Rosa. Like many others, I can't believe how fast I was off the ground. She flew beautifully, in trim without even a heavy wing. The CHT for cylinders 1 and 2 were getting a little high after the long taxi for takeoff, but cooled down nicely once I got my airspeed up. 24 squared gave me about 150 knots indicated without any wheel pants or gear leg fairings. Slow flight seemed docile, so I landed after a short 20 minute flight. My landing was nothing to brag about, but on centerline and where I was aiming.
When I first ran the engine I had problems with it running roughly. I got that fixed and it ran great before and during the flight. Once I was at idle on the ground though it went back to running rough. I also found that I have a small oil leak that had gone undiscovered before. I don't suppose it would be a true first flight without something to work on afterwards. I owe thanks to many people, especially my wife and son for putting up with this obsession of mine. I also want to thank my friends Kevin Quirk, David Lynch, and all the other EAA Chapter 124 members who have given me support and advice. Thanks to Alex for the transition training, and Van's for the great design. Here are some pictures of the big day. I mounted a video camera, but must have hit the wrong button before take off, because it didn't record.
My RV-8 finally flew today on a beautiful, calm morning in Santa Rosa. Like many others, I can't believe how fast I was off the ground. She flew beautifully, in trim without even a heavy wing. The CHT for cylinders 1 and 2 were getting a little high after the long taxi for takeoff, but cooled down nicely once I got my airspeed up. 24 squared gave me about 150 knots indicated without any wheel pants or gear leg fairings. Slow flight seemed docile, so I landed after a short 20 minute flight. My landing was nothing to brag about, but on centerline and where I was aiming.
When I first ran the engine I had problems with it running roughly. I got that fixed and it ran great before and during the flight. Once I was at idle on the ground though it went back to running rough. I also found that I have a small oil leak that had gone undiscovered before. I don't suppose it would be a true first flight without something to work on afterwards. I owe thanks to many people, especially my wife and son for putting up with this obsession of mine. I also want to thank my friends Kevin Quirk, David Lynch, and all the other EAA Chapter 124 members who have given me support and advice. Thanks to Alex for the transition training, and Van's for the great design. Here are some pictures of the big day. I mounted a video camera, but must have hit the wrong button before take off, because it didn't record.
Luckily, my friend and EAA Technical Counselor has a spare lying around so I should be flying again soon. 
