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Michael's RV-10 Build Log

Builder:
Michael Sausen
Location:
Shiocton, WI - USA
Aircraft:
Van's Aircraft - RV-10
Manufacturer:   
http://www.vansaircraft.com/
Engine:
Barrett Precision Engines - IO-540-X
Prop:
MT 3-Blade - MTV-9-B/198-52 - Fixed
Total Build Time:
1460 Hours

Welcome to my RV-10 construction log website. You may be wondering why I am building my own airplane—a couple of reasons.

First, it is much less expensive to build than to purchase an aircraft of equal specifications. The Van's line of kit aircraft has a long line of performance and safety records, making this much more attractive than purchasing. Over 10,000 of the Van's Aircraft RV line have been COMPLETED and FLOWN, with several thousand more currently under construction by people like me. Van's quotes that 1.5 RV series aircraft are completed every day. You may be surprised how many aircraft out there are amateur-built.

You can also figure building will be about 1/3rd the hard cash cost of buying. Of course, that doesn't count any sweat equity, which averages around 1500-2000 hours for this aircraft.

As the builder, I can perform all maintenance on this aircraft and use anything I see fit in the construction. This doesn't mean that I would use any inferior equipment, but it does mean not every part has to be "certified" for aircraft use. Yes, everything in a production aircraft has to be certified, which can add 500% to the cost. A good example is the many aircraft engine parts that roll off the same production lines as their automotive twins but cost four times as much because of the paperwork and cost to have them certified. Or the paperwork and hundreds of dollars required to change from an old incandescent landing light in a Cessna to a much more reliable halogen equivalent. Gotta love regulations.

And in case you were wondering, yes, it will have to go through a very detailed inspection by an FAA representative before it is deemed airworthy and can be taken into the air. In addition, I am participating in the EAA-sponsored Tech Counselor program, which pairs me with an experienced builder to visit me during the construction process and point out any areas of improvement or give suggestions. So far, so good.

Most importantly, I enjoy building things and love aviation, so this seemed to be a perfect fit.

Since starting this project, my family and I have moved cross country three times, had another child, and seen much travel due to my career. Needless to say, I wasn't expecting this to be a 15+ year project, but here I am. I am currently in what is commonly known as the "90% done with 90% to go" phase. This means almost all the major work is done, and now it's all about the little things.

Recent Activity
 Date Hours Work Log Summary Details
 03-12-2024
5.0
More Door Rework
Details

 03-10-2024
5.0
More Door Rework
Details

 03-08-2024
3.0
Door Work
Details

 03-06-2024
4.0
Windshield-doors-misc
Details

 03-04-2024
4.0
Engine Controls And Misc
Details

 03-01-2024
3.0
Throttle Body Work
Details

 02-21-2024
4.0
Rear Side Panels And Seatbelts
Details

 02-17-2024
8.0
Seat Wiring And Position Levers
Details

 01-14-2024
3.0
Bunch Of Little Things
Details

 01-10-2024
2.0
Stick Wiring
Details










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