Kit takeover/new builder

[duckguy]

Hey guys, my name is Matt and I'm from Madison, WI. I just recently passed my private and have been looking around at purchasing. After a lot of consideration the 7 seems perfect. I found this very close and it seems like a great opportunity.

http://www.barnstormers.com/classifi...RV-7A+Kit.html

So I don't know a darn thing about building a plane. I would love for you guys to share opinions on how it looks, how much more you think I would have to go, advice encouragement etc.

I know I need to buy the finishing kit. Has electric flaps and the flop tubes. Wings,rudder, flaps, ailerons are done. Can I still do an autopilot?

[Scbado]

Welcome to VAF and congratulations on passing your private!
I am building a 9A with a slider on it and we (my wife) are currently building the left wing. I can?t tell you yet on how it feels to finish the build but the building is mostly (except fuel tanks) enjoyable. If you would like to see how it looks close up you can PM me and you are welcome to come to my place and look at my project. I live in Brookfield, WI. Don?t forget if you like this site and plan on using it to donate to Doug. We want to keep Doug in business so he can support this site. It has been very useful to me.

[BobTurner]

Don't kid yourself. You are talking about building a substantial fraction of an airplane. The FARs allow this for your "education and enjoyment". Ask yourself, "Would I enjoy this kind of work?". If the answer is no, then you will find it drudgery of the worst kind. Much better to buy a finished, used RV-7 or 7A.
If the answer is 'yes', then either go for it, or even consider starting a new kit. But don't underestimate how much time this will take.

Personally, I loved the building process. You may too. But be honest with yourself. If you just want the plane, buy one already finished.

[Mike S]

Originally Posted by duckguy

Hey guys, my name is Matt and I'm from Madison, WI. I just recently passed my private

Matt, welcome aboard the best site on the internet for things of an RVsih nature

Yes, you can add an autopilot at anytime in the build---- only time it gets more difficult is after the panel is done and installed.

Good to have you here.

[BobTurner]

PS Since you are new to this don't underestimate the cost.
You need all the avionics, engine instruments, radios. Including autopilot if you so choose.
You need the engine and prop.
and the finish kit.
And painting, if you so choose.
And interior.

[hydroguy2]

1. Do you know any builders to visit in your area?
2. Do you have 20-40hrs per week for the next 2-4 yrs to spend building?
3. Do you have the disposable income to complete the project. est.$40-80K
4. Have you ever committed to a long term project and completed it?
5. Do you enjoy fabrication and seeing something grow from your own effort?
6. Is your family ready to help or take a back seat to the garage mistress?

[videobobk]

Welcome aboard!

I would note that often kits at this stage sell somewhat below their original cost. Not always, but it is common. The market for partially finished kits seems a little soft. Makes sure you want a tip-up, as that is what you are getting. Also, if you aren't experienced in such things, find someone who knows what "excellent" work looks like. There have been some things passed on that shouldn't have been. I have seen two. Also, make sure you aren't missing parts! Basically, it might be good to have an experienced person go over this for you. I would bet someone here could do that.

Bob

[comfortcat]

I'm building an RV-9A and LOVE it! We (brother-in-law) have been at it for 4 years, and I'm still married, happy at work, and not in the poor house.

*BUT*

Here are a few tips:

1. Building is NOT cheaper than buying. If you want an RV-7 to fly, BUY a flying RV-7. If money is a concern, buy a C-150, Cherokee, or C-172.

2. Your new ticket is actually a license to learn. You might want to build some time now.

3. Cessnas and Pipers are not fast, but they are fun.

4. Building can be a GREAT hobby. But it is a hobby. Building is not flying.

Cheers!

Dkb

[rockwoodrv9]

Matt,
Have fun with your build. What is better than being able to fly in a plane you built? Take it step by step and don't let those that sound like they are trying to talk you out of building spoil your fun. If you have your pilots license, you are a smart person and understand what you are getting into. It may cost the same building or buying, but with building you don't have to pay it all at once and you get to make it how you want.

Good luck and have a great time building. It is a much better use of time than watching TV!

[Don]

Matt,

You've gotten a lot of good advice so far. One thing no one has mentioned is the manual starts with directions that almost tell you which hand to hold the tool in and slowly assume you know the processes. By the time you get to the canopy (the worst part of the build, imo) the directions are pretty sparse. You're going to be jumping in when the directions are fading away. I don't mean to scare you off but want you to go in with your eyes open.