I am debating the purchase of an RV-9. I really want to build, but I am just not sure yet that I have the capability or tenacity. I am thinking about buying a pre-built airplane and getting the hang of maintaining an airplane before I take on the prospect of building an airplane.
So I went to look at an RV-9 today. Beautiful airplane. Dynon Skyview HDX panel, ADS-B IN and OUT, nice interior, beautiful paint. We decided to go for a demo ride, and all that I can say is W-O-W!!! This aircraft is really something! The aircraft has a Catto 3 blade prop with a Lycoming IO-360 motor.
During the demo flight, we went to 7500' (she sure climbs like a homesick angel!) and let her rip. 2600 RPM and 151 knots true, burning 10.5 gallons per hour. I was a little surprised by the fuel flow. Since the airplane holds 36 (or is it 38 gallons?) it really needs to be on the ground after 3 hours, and even then will only have around 4-6 gallons remaining. That's a pretty short legged airplane. Do these numbers sound correct? What are RV-9 pilots finding themselves doing, limiting to 2.5 hour legs or so? I thought I had heard of folks flying 4+ hours.
So here I sit, wanting the airplane BAD. If I felt better about the fuel limitations, I probably would have pulled the trigger and put the airplane into pre-buy. But man, that airplane is thirsty, and I am afraid I may feel like it's short on fuel. Can I add more fuel capacity, realistically?
So I went to look at an RV-9 today. Beautiful airplane. Dynon Skyview HDX panel, ADS-B IN and OUT, nice interior, beautiful paint. We decided to go for a demo ride, and all that I can say is W-O-W!!! This aircraft is really something! The aircraft has a Catto 3 blade prop with a Lycoming IO-360 motor.
During the demo flight, we went to 7500' (she sure climbs like a homesick angel!) and let her rip. 2600 RPM and 151 knots true, burning 10.5 gallons per hour. I was a little surprised by the fuel flow. Since the airplane holds 36 (or is it 38 gallons?) it really needs to be on the ground after 3 hours, and even then will only have around 4-6 gallons remaining. That's a pretty short legged airplane. Do these numbers sound correct? What are RV-9 pilots finding themselves doing, limiting to 2.5 hour legs or so? I thought I had heard of folks flying 4+ hours.
So here I sit, wanting the airplane BAD. If I felt better about the fuel limitations, I probably would have pulled the trigger and put the airplane into pre-buy. But man, that airplane is thirsty, and I am afraid I may feel like it's short on fuel. Can I add more fuel capacity, realistically?