Hi all.
Started my slow build 7A in 2001. Had it 90% done in two years, then kinda got sidetracked, but thanks to some help from Shawn Scott and my #1 helper, my brother Sam, I was able to finish it this year. Signed off on 3/26 but first flight not until 4/26 due to some last minute issues that surprised me.
First flight was uneventful, lasted 40 minutes or so and I made a picture perfect landing, thanks to transition training by Alex.
Details
The plane has been relatively trouble free during my test period. I did manage to blow an oil line early on and oil temps were somewhat high until I swapped out my vernatherm valve.
Currently flying sans gear fairings and wheel pants, as I operate off a grass strip.
Performance is OUTSTANDING. Single pilot with 3/4 fuel, I am off the grass in around 300 feet almost every time. On pavement, it's even better.
Current cruise seems to be around 155 KTS true. I'm sure that will improve when I add the fairings/pants. I typically cruise climb at 140KTS true and I fly 25 squared until I make altitude, then 2500/WOT. Fuel burn varies from 10-12 GPH, which is a welcome change from my old spam can (1962 210B).
Kudos to Vans for a great design. It's a terrific airplane, if I do say so myself.
I don't have any postable photos (she's quite plain right now), maybe If I can get one of my other planes sold, I can finish her up right.
JP
N131RV
Started my slow build 7A in 2001. Had it 90% done in two years, then kinda got sidetracked, but thanks to some help from Shawn Scott and my #1 helper, my brother Sam, I was able to finish it this year. Signed off on 3/26 but first flight not until 4/26 due to some last minute issues that surprised me.
First flight was uneventful, lasted 40 minutes or so and I made a picture perfect landing, thanks to transition training by Alex.
Details
- 200HP IO-360A1B6 with inverted oil and fuel
- Hartzell Constant speed prop.
- No paint and interior, weighed in at 1102 lbs empty.
- Garmin SL30
- King Digital Transponder
- Garmin 196 in panel mount
- Anywhere wx map on side mount.
- Vans engine instruments
- Airspeed, Altimeter and VSI.
- MGL Avionics TC-3 thermocouple instrument for EGT/CHTs
The plane has been relatively trouble free during my test period. I did manage to blow an oil line early on and oil temps were somewhat high until I swapped out my vernatherm valve.
Currently flying sans gear fairings and wheel pants, as I operate off a grass strip.
Performance is OUTSTANDING. Single pilot with 3/4 fuel, I am off the grass in around 300 feet almost every time. On pavement, it's even better.
Current cruise seems to be around 155 KTS true. I'm sure that will improve when I add the fairings/pants. I typically cruise climb at 140KTS true and I fly 25 squared until I make altitude, then 2500/WOT. Fuel burn varies from 10-12 GPH, which is a welcome change from my old spam can (1962 210B).
Kudos to Vans for a great design. It's a terrific airplane, if I do say so myself.
I don't have any postable photos (she's quite plain right now), maybe If I can get one of my other planes sold, I can finish her up right.
JP
N131RV
