Feedback wanted on some RV-6A issues

Thank you all for your input and replies that this RV newbie has.

I am looking at an RV-6A and would like some feedback, opinions on some numbers:

(In quotes are the email responses I received)

Engine: 0320E2D, 160hp,

"This airplane has a Sensenich 70CM7S9-0-79 do not exceed 2600 RPM prop."
Is that a climb or cruise prop ?

Speed and RPM settings:
"2380 RPM @ 155MPH, which is 65% power, 75% power is 2450RPM, so at 2500RPM you could see 164 or 165 MPH."

Are those similar numbers to other 6A 320 members here ?

"Empty Weight 1106# which is more than Vans because of cabin liner, insulation, 2 heat muffs, etc. Gross 1650#"

Seems high for a 160hp.
If pilot and passenger weigh 410lbs, that leaves 134lbs for fuel...and no baggage.

With min. Reserve that would mean flights of about 2 hours....
I didn't expect 4 stops on my cross country to Florida.

I would be adding a AP to boot ! Ouch...how much do these babies weigh?

What can be done to reduce weight ?

Serba wood cruise prop ? ( maybe gain some speed too)

Avionics:
KMA24Audio Panel
PS Eng Intercom & CD Player
KX155/165w/GS & KI209 Indicator
KLN89B GPSw/MD40 IND.
AT50 Transp ModeC-
ICA200 com
Radio's Fast Stack Wiring

Dynon D180 engine & flight Monitor
Lighted gauges & Post lights
EXbus rocker switch panel
Vernier mixture & throttle
Push to talk &Trim on Sticks
Oil pressure & fuel pump lights.
Aveo Strobes & Marker lights
AK450 ELT

Maybe I will have to look at a 7A, or someone will have to stay home...

Decisions, decisions, decisions.

Cheers to you all !

The plane itself, will have no problem with a higher gross weight, as long as the CG is within limits. A lot of 6As are registered with GW at around 1850 lbs. A constant speed Hartzell prop for instance, will balance out better for luggage. But, you may be stuck with what's on the data plate. I don't know all the answers to that.

L.Adamson -- previous RV6A Lycoming 0360/ Hartzell CS 1850 GW

I have the same engine/prop on my 6. Prop is pitched for cruise. You will only see about 2250 at the start of the takeoff roll. Speedwise I see 170 to 175 mph at 2450 rpm.

JimS

Actually the date of manufacturer is not required.

Mel said:

Actually the date of manufacturer is not required.

Click to expand...

Mel,

Is a registered weight still needed to be declared on any forms if it's no longer required on the data label?

Yes! As CharlieMike said, you must submit your weight & balance to the FAA.

Gross weight is part of weight & balance.