AntiGravity
Well Known Member
Hi Guys,
after selling my -8 project due to marital separation, I'm now looking a couple of years into the future at a new build. I don't have anywhere near the time or finances of my previous life, and for that reason a 'full-blown' RV (-7/-8) is probably not in scope. For a number of reasons, many to do with NZ laws, the microlight category is calling my name, since the RV-12 and similar (2-seats, under 600Kg mtow) can be built, registered and operated under microlight rules here.
So, I've been looking at the RV-12 and the Zenith CH650B. Don't worry, I've read a lot about both and this isn't a "which one" question. There are pros and cons to both, from many different angles.
I do need to know more about the actual construction of the -12 though. I have a single-width / double-length car garage, very limited finances, not as much time as I'd like and this will likely be a 'solo' build for the most part extended over many, many years.
So, on to the construction questions (since there are no preview plans) for the -12:
I'm sure I'll have more thoughts. The issue I have is that, so far I have sat in a CH650 and found out recently during pursuit of a microlight license that there is a 601 locally that I will be able to obtain a flight in. So far, I haven't found any local -12 either in build or flying, so I have no direct comparison.
I do know how good Vans kits are though, after my -8 build, and the support available in these forums. Although rare, the possibility of wing removal on the -12 for back-to-home maintenance is compelling too.
EDIT: told you there would be more thoughts. I've always loved the idea of an EFIS, but haven't seen them in action in simulated flight, I find I do actually prefer round dials. Therefore I'd like a combined dial / EFIS panel with separate GPS, AoA and auto-pilot. This also strays further from the 'single design' RV-12. Yeah, I know I can do it in NZ no problem, but a core draw card for the -12 is the 'complete design'. How far do I stray without official factory support? (rhetorical question; just my thoughts).
Thanks for any feedback.
Cheers. lue skies and tailwinds.
after selling my -8 project due to marital separation, I'm now looking a couple of years into the future at a new build. I don't have anywhere near the time or finances of my previous life, and for that reason a 'full-blown' RV (-7/-8) is probably not in scope. For a number of reasons, many to do with NZ laws, the microlight category is calling my name, since the RV-12 and similar (2-seats, under 600Kg mtow) can be built, registered and operated under microlight rules here.
So, I've been looking at the RV-12 and the Zenith CH650B. Don't worry, I've read a lot about both and this isn't a "which one" question. There are pros and cons to both, from many different angles.
I do need to know more about the actual construction of the -12 though. I have a single-width / double-length car garage, very limited finances, not as much time as I'd like and this will likely be a 'solo' build for the most part extended over many, many years.
So, on to the construction questions (since there are no preview plans) for the -12:
- How much solid rivetting is required? (I'm ok with it, just don't have tools or a partner!)
- Is all the solid rivetting in a 'single' area that can be tackled at once (I'm thinking I might be able to borrow tools, but can't keep borrowing over and over)
- The fact that the 'g-limits' are not published bother me a little. Anyone know? I have no intention of aeros, but a known & published limit helps me understand the airframe construction a little more.
- I'm interested in the UL Power engines. I've seen a couple of threads here about them in the -12, but haven't found any completed examples. Anyone have any info?
- Any really good build logs, with photos you can recommend (in lieu of preview plans!)
- How much work *requires* two people (not including 'big jobs' like fitting wings)
- Is there much in the way of flush rivets on the skins (I'm thinking dimpling here!)?
- Being shorter than your average bear, what's the deal with rudder pedal placement / adjustment?
- Any jigs at all required? All I needed for the -8 was a wing 'jig', if you could call it even that, for when the skins were fitted
- Are the control surfaces (all?/some?) mass balanced like on the -7/-8?
- Dual brakes?
I'm sure I'll have more thoughts. The issue I have is that, so far I have sat in a CH650 and found out recently during pursuit of a microlight license that there is a 601 locally that I will be able to obtain a flight in. So far, I haven't found any local -12 either in build or flying, so I have no direct comparison.
I do know how good Vans kits are though, after my -8 build, and the support available in these forums. Although rare, the possibility of wing removal on the -12 for back-to-home maintenance is compelling too.
EDIT: told you there would be more thoughts. I've always loved the idea of an EFIS, but haven't seen them in action in simulated flight, I find I do actually prefer round dials. Therefore I'd like a combined dial / EFIS panel with separate GPS, AoA and auto-pilot. This also strays further from the 'single design' RV-12. Yeah, I know I can do it in NZ no problem, but a core draw card for the -12 is the 'complete design'. How far do I stray without official factory support? (rhetorical question; just my thoughts).
Thanks for any feedback.
Cheers. lue skies and tailwinds.
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