Another RV-8 leaves the nest

panhandler1956 · #1 07-15-2013, 04:52 AM

This weekend I had the pleasure of conducting the 1st flight on my friend Dean Merchant's new RV-8.
His airplane did great; it brought me back with 0 squawks!

It was a warm day in Ohio and even with breaking in a new engine his temps stayed right where they needed to be.

Dean has made every effort to build it light (1050#) and boy it really flew great with the 180HP and fixed pitch prop. It was interesting for me to see the contrast as my airplane is almost 100# heavier and has all the bells and whistles. I can see why Van says to build 'em light.

I think it'll be fast too, because it had no trouble doing 170 mph indicated at 3000' without fairings.

Congratulations to Dean and new flying machine (pic taken just after the flight).

A proud Mr. Merchant!

ColoRv · #2 07-15-2013, 06:38 AM

Congrats!

It's always good to see that these things are finishable (is that a word?)

RV7Guy · #3 07-15-2013, 06:41 AM

Congrats on the first flight. Now the fun really gets going.

humptybump · #4 07-15-2013, 07:06 AM

Nice report Brent and CONGRATULATIONS Dean !

Mike S · #5 07-15-2013, 08:30 AM

To you both, big congrats.

springer · #6 07-15-2013, 10:42 AM

Brent, I am a minimalist as well....any interior/panel shots? Thanks.

panhandler1956 · #7 07-16-2013, 04:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by springer

Brent, I am a minimalist as well....any interior/panel shots? Thanks.

Jim,
I'll try to grab some shots the next time I see Dean. As you would expect, it's really just seat cushions.

panhandler1956 · #8 07-18-2013, 07:47 PM

What I didn't mention before about Dean is that he is 85 years young!

How's that for those who think they are past their prime and can't do it?!

What an inspiration he has been to me!