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Jims Web Site
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Date: 12-8-2007
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Number of Hours: 0.00
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Manual Reference:
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Brief Description: Preparation / area setup
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This is my first entry. I have owned a 172 for the last 7 years. Even though the 172 has been fun it is time to go faster, farther, higher. The plane that seems to fit my budget and my type of flying is the Vans RV-9A. I have planned a conservative package that I believe I will be able to build and fly within the next two to three years.
RV-9A, nose gear, slider, steam gauges, Garmin 430 setup, autopilot, oxygen system, IFR capable, O-320- 160hp. carburetor, dual mags, constant speed prop.
Prime or not to prime, I choose not to prime. The time and weight savings will offset the slight chance of future corrosion. I live in the south-east, a relatively corrosion free area. My 35yr old 172 is in great shape internally and it spent the first 25 years living out in the weather. Only the last ten years have been spent in a hangar.
I have spent the last year preparing for this moment. The financing is in place. The work area albeit not as large as I would like is adequate for at least the tail and wings. When it comes time to do the fuselage I may move the the hangar to build. I will end up there anyway for final assembly.
So here I am, a 53 year old pilot, Private, Instrument rated, Class 2 medical, 650hrs. I have worked in the automotive world most of my life. Parts manager, Service manager, owned my own shop for 16 years. The skills and knowledge I have learned have been used to maintain and repair the 172 along with my A&P. I have been around high-tech Ferraris for most of my career, V12 engines, dual distributors, 6 carburators, fuel injection, and FAST! Aircraft are simple machines. The same rules apply for quality work. 160mph on the ground or in the air will hurt if something comes apart.
This begins the journey. I am about 15 days away from ordering the empennage. Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance. I think I am prepared. We will see......
Jim Weed drhondaa@bellsouth.net
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New windows, sheetrock, air
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Sheetrock, bench & light
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This is "Before"
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