TCONROY
Well Known Member
My intent is not to start any type of wars here. I'm finishing up the wings for my planned RV-7A, but am having some question as to the strength of the nosewheel after hearing and reading about several tip-over accidents (nose gear failures).
My initial reason for wanting the -7A was more capabilities in IFR (higher crosswind components). I fly a C-140 and love tailwheel aircraft!! It has nothing to do with liking one over the other, but rather my initial assumption that the -7A could do more and go more places in higher winds.
But after reading a lot on the forums about how delicate you must be with the tricycle gear, I wonder if either model really has any advantage over the other. Is my initial assumption about the -7A being able to land in higher crosswinds incorrect due to the fact that you must be incredibly careful to make very good landings in it each and every time?
I know there are some mods to bring the nosewheel up a bit and to create somewhat of a skid in the nosewheel fairing.
I'm about to commit to a fuselage kit and must decide. I think the -7 is sexier on the ramp, and am beginning to think it may be safer due to the lack of nosewheel issue. Looking for any help, advice, tips, something that can help sway me one way or another. If the nosewheel design is fundamentally flawed and weak, I really don't want to go that route. I know I'd be happy with either airframe, but I do want the one that will provide the most safety and capabilities in all conditions (soft fields, higher winds..etc)
My initial reason for wanting the -7A was more capabilities in IFR (higher crosswind components). I fly a C-140 and love tailwheel aircraft!! It has nothing to do with liking one over the other, but rather my initial assumption that the -7A could do more and go more places in higher winds.
But after reading a lot on the forums about how delicate you must be with the tricycle gear, I wonder if either model really has any advantage over the other. Is my initial assumption about the -7A being able to land in higher crosswinds incorrect due to the fact that you must be incredibly careful to make very good landings in it each and every time?
I know there are some mods to bring the nosewheel up a bit and to create somewhat of a skid in the nosewheel fairing.
I'm about to commit to a fuselage kit and must decide. I think the -7 is sexier on the ramp, and am beginning to think it may be safer due to the lack of nosewheel issue. Looking for any help, advice, tips, something that can help sway me one way or another. If the nosewheel design is fundamentally flawed and weak, I really don't want to go that route. I know I'd be happy with either airframe, but I do want the one that will provide the most safety and capabilities in all conditions (soft fields, higher winds..etc)