[pmccoy]

Starting to fill out my FAA paperwork, and am wondering about gross weight. Vans recommends a gross weight of 1750 lbs. for the RV9A. However, they also state it's up to the builder to determine their own gross weight. I see the RV7A is listed as 1,800 lbs.

Just wondering what others have listed for gross weight on the RV9A?

 

[rvbuilder2002]

I see the RV7A is listed as 1,800 lbs.

Just wondering what others have listed for gross weight on the RV9A?

And the RV-10 gross weight is listed at 2700 lbs... It's a low wing airplane... it's also an RV

Gross weight isn't an arbitrary number. It is specifically related to the engineering and design of the airplane.

Some choose to use a higher # anyway.

In reality, it doesn't matter what # anyone else has used.
During phase 1 you should do testing that establishes performance #'s for your airplane, at gross weight (and your completion of phase 1 log book entry is required to have performance #'s entered based on your max gross weight testing).
So, at the very least, be prepared to flight test it at what ever weight you specify.

 

[BobTurner]

I would disagree with the above advice, somewhat. Van's has presumably tested and/or calculated that the wing can hold up 3.8 times Vans' published gross weight without damage; and can hold up 50% more than that, possibly with permanent deformation but without failure.
I seriously doubt most homebuilders will do that sort of testing; nor will most have the ability to calculate the results, at higher loads.

 

[rvbuilder2002]

I would disagree with the above advice, somewhat. Van's has presumably tested and/or calculated that the wing can hold up 3.8 times Vans' published gross weight without damage; and can hold up 50% more than that, possibly with permanent deformation but without failure.
I seriously doubt most homebuilders will do that sort of testing; nor will most have the ability to calculate the results, at higher loads.

Bob, I think you missunderstood.
I didn't say test at max. load factor, I said test at specified gross weight.
Also, this is not my advice or opinion... It is technically required by the operating limitations issued for an E-AB aircraft

 

[BobTurner]

All I meant was that the builder who choses to increase gross weight beyond Vans recommendation is dealing with the unknown as far as what load factors can be safely tolerated.

 

[esco]

per vans

Bob:

to your original question- I listed 1750, per Vans (preview plans & website specs) as my gross.

I do intend to use that weight at relevant times in my flight testing- bags of gravel are my current plan to simulate pax & baggage area loads.