A question for Mel and other DAR's

[jim miller]

Sirs:
This is off topic to most RV's and has been addressed before but please
clarify something for me regarding gross weight of experimental
amateur built aircraft. I am building a exp cub and plan to sacrifice payload
for a 1320 gross weight so in the hopefully distant future I can fly without
medical. I am going with a wood prop for the 0235, very light or even no
electrical system as required to keep empty weight down. Let's say the
worst case senerio is 850 empty weight plus 18 gal fuel (108lbs) leaving
a payload of 360 lbs which would mean two 170 lb people and 20 lbs
baggage. The PIC as always will be responsible for not exceeding Gross
weight. Are these numbers reasonable and could the max payload be
even lower? What are the absolute rules in this area. I would like to
support our local DAR but he is in my opinion confused by insisting that
my experimental has to meet the same payload as a factory LSA which
has nothing to do with experimental amateur built certification.

Thanks
Jim Miller

[Mel]

There is no limit on empty weight and/or useful load on an experimental aircraft for use as an LSA.
The minimum payload is an S-LSA rule.
As you say, it is the responsibility of the pilot/operator to stay within gross weight limits.

[jim miller]

Mel
Thanks for the reply. In your opinion what would be the minium payload
Not counting full fuel would most DAR's be willing to sign off on. Say for
instance I ended up with only 320lbs wbich would make very heavy pilots
solo only and average weight pilot pay very close attention to passenger
weight. I feel certain i can end up with 360 or even higher but was just
wondering if for instance wanted to go for a starter/alt, metal prop etc.

Thanks
Jim Miller