Hello everyone,
New member here who wants to build a Kitfox S7 STi.
CONTEXT:
No experience flying (except for PC simulator games) or building aircraft, but flying is something that I always wanted to do. Who hasn't? Thinking of getting the PPL concurrently as I build by renting an airplane, or get the PPL afterwards using the completed project.
No experience fixing aircraft except being a National Guard aircraft mechanic with only the required training completed, with no actual aircraft repair experience. Those who know, know that this cannot be compared to an FAA A&P license at all. The Army training just gives you a very short introduction to using tools and how to read the manual, and then you're supposed to learn while on the job, under supervision.
I've decided to build instead of buying, so I can do my own annual inspections, do my own repairs, do upgrades myself when I can afford, and be intimately familiar with the aircraft. I maintain my own cars, so if it's anything comparable, I think doing things myself is very cost effective in the long term.
I've chosen Kitfox because of the features. Folding wings so I can put it in a trailer and keep it with me. Also the ability to change from tailwheel to nosewheeel, add floats, add a BRS. STi to fly low and slow and look at the scenery, and land and takeoff in backcountry.
SUBJECT:
When I go to the website and look at the brochure, there is a a price tag for the complete S7 STi Firewall Back Kit. It also says that the kit includes the Fuselage Kit, Wing Kit, Landing Gear Kit, Covering Kit and Rib Lacing Kit, and powder coating. But there are no price tags given for these sub-kits.
My question is, can I buy these sub-kits one by one as I can afford them? I cannot afford the whole kit right now with the other life plans I have, but I would like to get started on this project as soon as I can.
Some concerns that come to mind are, S7 being discontinued while I'm in the middle of my project, extra shipping costs, extra powder coating costs etc.
Financing the whole kit is an option, if that is possible. But not preferable, because I don't like being in debt. Just a personal preference.
I thought I'd ask to see if others have done this, before directly asking Kitfox.
Thanks.