Newbie Questions

jdgold · #1 01-31-2011, 08:15 AM

Hi all,

I am considering buying an already built RV-6A or 7A to fulfill a lifelong dream of owning my own airplane. I am a current military pilot but don't have much

experience in GA aircraft. I am also considering buying a Cessna Cardinal. The top of my budget is around $65K, but I'd like to stay lower than that if possible

to have some reserve $ left over for the inevitable expenses.

Part of my typical "mission" will be cross country flights (about 600 mile radius from N.J.). The extra seat or two (depending on weight) in the Cardinal would

be nice, but I don't think I'd use it/them that much, and I'd love to go upside down again.

Compared to other "traditional" airplanes, how is the RV6A as an IFR platform as far as stability, work load, etc.? I'd like to hear from pilots who have flown

both types.

Is an autopilot with alt hold a desirable thing in the RV6 compared to other types of single engine airplanes?

Compared to other "traditional" airplanes, how is the RV6A comfort level for two average size people on longer (3+ hour) trips?

Can you do "leisurley" aerobatics with 360 lb of people in it?

Thanks in advance.

J.D.

Vern · #2 01-31-2011, 08:31 AM

RV for sure wins!

>Maintenance and parts: saves a bundle

>Performance

>Acro (you'll be solo most of the time)

>Formation

> Cool friends (fellow RV'ers)

>Fun!

Note: As an A&P I feel sorry for those who own older certified aircraft as maintenance is tougher and tougher to obtain. Parts are hard to find and mechanics who understand and want to work on older planes are dying off/retiring. Save yourself a headache and go for an RV.

Mike S · #3 01-31-2011, 09:37 AM

J.D., welcome to VAF

pierre smith · #4 01-31-2011, 09:51 AM

FWIW, an RV-6 is two inches wider than a Skyhawk. It's cozy but comfortable and I've done many 2 1/2 hour trips and a few 3 hours without discomfort, and you gotta realize, that's almost 600 miles!

You can do all of your own maintenance, as Vern pointed out and only need an A@P for condition (annual) inspections, not an IA.

Parts costs are waaaaay lower than certed airplanes.

Get a ride in one and you'll be convinced. Leisurely acro at gross is no problem....like aileron rolls, etc.

Best,

aarvig · #5 01-31-2011, 10:16 AM

What makes the 6 so fun to fly makes it not so great for IFR. Now, while I am ducking

let me say that many people do equip their 6's for IFR and fly them that way. The Cardinal is by far a way more stable IFR platform but you can't have as much fun with a Cardinal as you can a 6. If you are going to fly regular IFR in a 6 you will need multiple axis autopilot.
Personally, the high roll rates in a 6 would make me think twice about flying IFR in one. Thats why I picked the 9. Much more stable IFR platform. But you can't do acro...rats whats a guy to do. BUY TWO PLANES! One for acro, one for IFR.

B737NG · #6 01-31-2011, 06:30 PM

We had a 1971 C-177B for 10 years and sold it when the RV-6 was ready to fly.
We also completed a RV-8 a year ago.

I would describe the Cardinal as a Cadillac and a RV as a Corvette in terms of their handling qualities.

Paul

jdgold · #7 02-10-2011, 08:11 AM

Thanks for all the advice. It looks like finding a 6 or 7 with an autopilot would do the trick.

I've never flown in one, so that is my next step in this process.

J.D.

Jerry Cochran · #8 02-10-2011, 11:29 AM

J.D.,

This one popped up right here today and looks like it's priced within your budget. Of course, due diligence required so buyer should get a knowledgeable RV person to take a look.

http://www.vansairforce.com/communit...ad.php?t=68337

I've told friends I'd give up flying before going back to an old Cessna, that is unless someone would give me a Corvallis TT and pay for gas, etc... But then again, no acro...

N941WR · #9 02-10-2011, 11:40 AM

JD,

I lived in Freehold for five years before transferring to Charlotte and was a member of EAA 315. I would suggest you join 315 and try getting a ride in an RV before laying any cash on the table.

bkthomps · #10 02-10-2011, 11:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by N941WR

JD,

I lived in Freehold for five years before transferring to Charlotte and was a member of EAA 315. I would suggest you join 315 and try getting a ride in an RV before laying any cash on the table.

though if you need a different opinion, i started my tail before i flew in one

never looked back, have over 6hrs DUAL in rv6 now