Okay, all of you RV-4 aficionados. First, I think that the RV-4 is the absolute best design ever, to make it?s way to the builders market: Bar none!! I have flown a 4, 6s, an 8 and a 9. For all around fun and efficiency, I?ll take a 4, any day.
As you all know, Van is working diligently on the RV-12 and my next building interest is leaning towards an aircraft that could comply with the Sport Pilot regs. Age is catching me and I must look at the fact that, down the road, passing a flight physical could start to become a stressful endeavor. I have not been real excited about the 12. Now I find out that Jay Kurtz, at the South Lakeland airport in Florida, is working to get a RV-9 to make the numbers. Wow!! That?s a heavy airplane to try to make that happen. But, what about a 4??
The 4 is only a little over 100 lbs. overweight, and that?s with 160 hp. Any thoughts about using an O235, an O200, or the new IO200. I would even consider the Jabiru 3300, with it?s 120hp. Any other thoughts about reducing the empty weight, while still maintaining complete airframe integrity?? Also, I think that the clean stall speed may need to be tweaked a bit. Anyone know what that number really is for the average RV-4, particularly at something closer to 1320 lbs?? Of course, the top end can be managed with prop.
I really want a 4 and am willing to take some risk with the project and even do a little re-engineering, with a little help. All comments greatly appreciated.. Keep them 4s coming!
Tom
As you all know, Van is working diligently on the RV-12 and my next building interest is leaning towards an aircraft that could comply with the Sport Pilot regs. Age is catching me and I must look at the fact that, down the road, passing a flight physical could start to become a stressful endeavor. I have not been real excited about the 12. Now I find out that Jay Kurtz, at the South Lakeland airport in Florida, is working to get a RV-9 to make the numbers. Wow!! That?s a heavy airplane to try to make that happen. But, what about a 4??
The 4 is only a little over 100 lbs. overweight, and that?s with 160 hp. Any thoughts about using an O235, an O200, or the new IO200. I would even consider the Jabiru 3300, with it?s 120hp. Any other thoughts about reducing the empty weight, while still maintaining complete airframe integrity?? Also, I think that the clean stall speed may need to be tweaked a bit. Anyone know what that number really is for the average RV-4, particularly at something closer to 1320 lbs?? Of course, the top end can be managed with prop.
I really want a 4 and am willing to take some risk with the project and even do a little re-engineering, with a little help. All comments greatly appreciated.. Keep them 4s coming!
Tom