Evaluating RVs for Purchase

kontiki

kontiki

Cleared for Takeoff
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May 30, 2011
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Kontiki
OK, next step for me is to go shopping for an aircraft pretty soon.

If I set out to find a nice RV, what should I look for?

Friends tell me all RV builders start with the tail feathers. Look back there to see if it's really rough.

I think I'd value an aircraft built per the plans vs one with a lot of home engineered design changes. How would I get a potential candidate evaluated for conformity to original design.

Anybody know of any RV specialists close to MEM?

Thanks in advance for the tips.
 
The best thing to do it become a member of Vans Air force and when you find a promising aircraft have an experienced RV builder take a look at it. I have bought and sold several RVs and rebuilt stuff, upgraded panels, built one, and own 2.

You are certainly on the track to fast economical flying.

What to look for?

Complete logs
Damage history? If any what repairs were made and by whom?
Engine time, new or rebuilt? How many times rebuilt? Fuel injected? Carb?
Prop fixed pitch or CS?
Paint? Is it what you like or can live with?
Panel? Will it fit your mission? VFR? IFR?

Basically, look at the overall picture, was the builder a first timer? Has he built something before? Don't rule out a first timer, just ask questions. Did he have help?

It all adds up, and nothing should disqualify it completely, just get a good feel for the price and what the plane has.

Fly in the plane. Vibration? Power? Speeds near Vans specs? Comfort?
 
Last edited:
Steve,

I joined EAA182 last month. And, I probably met Larry Jenkins and Dwight Smith already too, although I have no recollection now of who they are.

I'll look for them at the pancake breakfast tomorrow morning.
 
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