This is a blog that’s documenting a Van RV-7 kit build.
NOTE
I’m still fabricating the Zenith. Just wanted to start a more cross-country centric project as my primary focus. Instead, the Zenith CH750 Cruzer will probably take on a more specialized role. Maybe as a sea plane :)
Mission Profile
The mission that this build is looking to fill is a fast two-seat cross country tourer with light aerobatic capabilities. It’s primary purpose is to cruise at a high enough airspeed that it doesn’t take forever to get places, even with a slight head wind. Secondary purpose is to be a recreational aerobatic plane to have fun in the local pattern areas.
As a list:
- Two-seats
- I only ever take my partner. That’s true for basically 100% of my flying.
- The second seat would be handy for cross-country baggage if flying solo.
- 100 lbs of baggage at full tanks
- Want to be able to haul stuff if needed. 70 lbs in the Rans S-19 goes fast, especially with poor weight and balance.
- Ideally be able to put our pup in there too :)
- Push 200mph true air speed
- This is important in fighting head winds. The Rans only really cruises around 136mph and is heavily affected by wind. From Phoenix, AZ to Hammonton, NJ (KDVT - N81), we’re talking 16+ hours with a slight headwind!
- 10k+ feet cruising altitude
- Need enough engine to get up high and have options around weather and terrain.
- Stable enough for IFR work
- Enough engine and slippery airframe for high density altitude days.
- I live in mountains, so climb rate is crucial!
- Fun in the local area
- Many light sports are spritely and responsive. I’d love for this plane to be able to do some light aerobatics as well to challenge myself!
- Not wildly expensive
- There are faster kits, but they’re hilariously expensive. Especially with insurance.
- Widely supported kit
- If I’m investing in building a kit, I want something that people everywhere have built. Something where help and resources are plentiful.
At the end of it, I had two choices: the Vans RV-7 and RV-9. Since I want to be able to do aerobatics, there ended up being only one choice remaining: the Van’s RV-7.