libertyman777
I'm New Here
Hey everyone!
So I'm currently finishing a Pietenpol project that I purchased recently. It's about 80-85% complete. I have most all of the components needed to finish, including the firewall forward (Corvair), covering materials, instruments, etc. I do have to fashion one key system and it will be very similar to what is installed in a RV, the fuel tank.
Actually, I'll be building the tank from scratch and will be utilizing my wooden rib as a template for the aluminum (with some slight changes) and then assembling, riveting and sealing it up just like in the Vans video and using the Vans sealant.
It'll be located in the center section and will be gravity fed.
I have been considering going to a certified plane like a Mooney, Piper Arrow, Grumman AA5. But these aren't getting any cheaper or younger.
The Piet project has really been a confidence builder and the stage of completion that I purchased mine in makes it much more like a kit/plans hybrid.
If I do go with the RV it will be either a pay as I go situation or a project that someone is selling in a low stage of completions that will allow for a thorough inspection.
My choices are narrowed down toe the 6, 7 or 9. So herein lies my question. I'd also like to upgrade as I go but I wonder about practicality.
For instance:
1: Starting out with a fixed pitch prop but moving to a constant speed.
2: Starting out with a minimal VFR panel and upgrading to IFR.
a) If this is practical, could I start with steam gauges or some type of
electronic system?
3: I would also eventually want an auto pilot. Is this something that I should
install initially and then hook up later or just wait?
4: Engine upgrade. Should I buy once and cry once here or can I go bigger at a
later date.
5: Used/rebuilt engines.
6: Has anyone else done their build this way at least in part.
I appreciate your answers and please excuse my ignorance.
Thanks,
Paul
So I'm currently finishing a Pietenpol project that I purchased recently. It's about 80-85% complete. I have most all of the components needed to finish, including the firewall forward (Corvair), covering materials, instruments, etc. I do have to fashion one key system and it will be very similar to what is installed in a RV, the fuel tank.
Actually, I'll be building the tank from scratch and will be utilizing my wooden rib as a template for the aluminum (with some slight changes) and then assembling, riveting and sealing it up just like in the Vans video and using the Vans sealant.
It'll be located in the center section and will be gravity fed.
I have been considering going to a certified plane like a Mooney, Piper Arrow, Grumman AA5. But these aren't getting any cheaper or younger.
The Piet project has really been a confidence builder and the stage of completion that I purchased mine in makes it much more like a kit/plans hybrid.
If I do go with the RV it will be either a pay as I go situation or a project that someone is selling in a low stage of completions that will allow for a thorough inspection.
My choices are narrowed down toe the 6, 7 or 9. So herein lies my question. I'd also like to upgrade as I go but I wonder about practicality.
For instance:
1: Starting out with a fixed pitch prop but moving to a constant speed.
2: Starting out with a minimal VFR panel and upgrading to IFR.
a) If this is practical, could I start with steam gauges or some type of
electronic system?
3: I would also eventually want an auto pilot. Is this something that I should
install initially and then hook up later or just wait?
4: Engine upgrade. Should I buy once and cry once here or can I go bigger at a
later date.
5: Used/rebuilt engines.
6: Has anyone else done their build this way at least in part.
I appreciate your answers and please excuse my ignorance.
Thanks,
Paul