Is your RV your first build?

cwoodyfly2001 · #1 09-08-2008, 02:41 PM

I was wondering how many have started with an RV as there first build? I really want to build an RV-7 or RV-9 but I think it is out of my league at this moment (new family, new career that is in the decline) I am looking at another kit that is about 1/4 the cost to get flying compared with the RV.. It is only 1 seat and as slow as a snail, but that is O.K. with me.. The problem is every time I look at these other airplane kits I always come back to the RV's and I say to myself if I am going to go thrue the trouble of building, build something worth the time?
Thanks for any advice..
Chris
Washington State

shuttle · #2 09-08-2008, 03:09 PM

Yep, RV-7 first build. Nearly two years in and still enjoying it.
Never done anything like this before, not even worked on cars (automobiles

).
Only a bit of home DIY and patio in the garden.

Also opted for tailwheel and CS prop, neither of which have I flown yet.

You'll learn pretty quick and there's lots of online help available.
Every problem you hit, someone somewhere has solved it already.

You won't regret going for an RV-7 but I bet you'll regret opting for something else.

Steve
UK

shuttle · #3 09-08-2008, 03:16 PM

Plus it looks like you're almost in Van's backyard (relatively speaking).
If you screw something up it's easy for you to get new bits.
Just think if you had to worry about foreign exchange rates and shipping halfway round the world.
Steve
UK

David_Nelson · #4 09-08-2008, 03:22 PM

Hi Chris,

This is my 1st build. Been working on it nearly 4 years at my own pace (and with a couple of worthwhile interruptions). If your heart/conscience keep coming back to the RV, then build the RV rather than wishing you had started an RV. Start with the emp kit. If you find it's not for you, then that's 100% Ok. Your heart and conscience will know.

A gentleman here on VAF recently finished his after 10 years - Wow, now that's perseverance! He received as many, if not more, congratulations and "way to go" comments as the guys that get them done in 2 years. My point being, set your pace, have your priorities in place, and have some fun.

Good luck and take care,

airguy · #5 09-08-2008, 03:29 PM

Yup - first build for me. Like you, I also looked at other cheaper ways to get in the air quickly - but in the end I just couldn't justify building something else when the RV was really what I wanted. I couldn't see building an airplane that didn't sing to my soul....

Rivethead · #6 09-08-2008, 03:52 PM

My first build also, but I have talked with many other builders of flying aircraft that are now seriously thinking of building an RV. What I have heard in every case is "Had I started with an RV I wouldn't feel the desire to build anything else".

Don Jones · #7 09-08-2008, 03:56 PM

Yep the 9 is my first as well. Not sure I could justify building something I didn't want just to get in the air. You might want to hold out for the real deal!

DanH · #8 09-08-2008, 04:02 PM

Chris, I've had a heap of fun building/flying projects that cost less than the average panel in an RV. If you really want an RV, go for it, but it may be better to start something you can finish and fly now while still meeting your family obligations.

Sure have heard a lot of guys speak derisively of cheap, fun flyers.....while sitting on the "I don't have an airplane" bench in front of the FBO. Meanwhile my buds were pouring mogas in 4 GPH near-ultralights and spending the evening rat-racing through cow pastures. Flying anything is better than wishing.

My first owned-airplane was an L-4 project I bought for 20K, $3K down and $17K financed on a two-year note. Spent a few more grand in cash, flew it 300 happy hours, and sold it for $28.5. By then the loan was paid. It was really just an enforced airplane savings account that I didn't mind paying into. The 28.5 went into a bigger, better project. Working your way up (both skills and money) is a valid approach.

Mel · #9 09-08-2008, 04:06 PM

My first RV build was my 6th amateur-built. Ordered kit in January of 1989. Red Marron & I built 2 RV-6s side by side in my 2-car garage. My first flight 5/13/93 and Red's was 5/15/93.

cwoodyfly2001 · #10 09-08-2008, 04:10 PM

Dan H thanks for the input..
I guess I was thinking that it would be easier to start with a simpler, and cheaper project to be sure I am wanting to spend many years and lots of money on a plane.. Also learning the in and outs of owning and operating my own plane.. I guess the building interests me as much as the flying.. I fly everyday if I want to or not, so seat time is not the issue. I miss the fun and freedom of GA and need a project to work on...
Chris
Bonney Lake WA