John's Build

[jrevens]

Hi Dan,

I had a custom radiator built and I have the hose connection on that end of the radiator in a different position than on the factory radiators. The reason is because I felt it was a little too "busy" in the area where the original routing was designed by Kitfox, particularly in proximity to the exhaust pipe. So, I used a combination of silicone hose along with that small section of aluminum pipe (which I put a small bend in) to get clean routing without contact with surrounding structure, etc. The 1" silicone hose wants to remain straight, and I wanted a little bend there. You can also see the relocated connection on the radiator in this picture (on the back of the radiator). It also shows where I re-mounted the air/oil separator (slightly different than in the original position), to allow the hose to go "downhill" all the way from the oil tank a little better.

IMG_1476.jpg

[3kdscf]

Thanks! Love your mod! Im going to see if I can do something halfway between what you have done and a stock install.

That is a really busy area and although it has not abraded in 700 hours of use, I am still not happy with my coolant hose routing. Its really hard to find a clean route down from the spider tank down past the airbox, carb, and engine mount to the radiator.

[jrevens]

Well, this is going to be a tough post for me... I'm selling my Kitfox. There are multiple reasons, but the most important is the fact that my wife is no longer able to fly with me, and her needs require a considerable amount of help that I feel very fortunate to be able to provide. I gave her her first ride in a small airplane when we were first married, 52 years ago, and she loved it. Since then we've flown all over the country in the airplanes I built, as well as others. I've flown to OSH since the '70's, and she's gone with me multiple times. Just can't do that anymore... I can't leave her for that length of time now. I'm embarrassed how few hours I've flown the Kitfox this year, and it's become clear to me that it's the right time to sell it. Anyone interested can look back through this thread to see some of the build details. I will try to post a link in the classifieds forum to a site where a friend has listed it for me with a lot of photos and details.

[Kitfox Pilot]

Well John I certainly understand life changes as we age. I'm So sorry to see you sell your kitfox, but I have great respect for you caring for your wife. God bless you both and I hope you hang around to give the great advice you have always given.

[jiott]

Sorry to hear that John, but I certainly understand your situation. I myself may be facing the same issue in a few years. As Harlan said, we hope you continue to participate in this forum.

[bumsteer]

Hi John

As tough a decision as I'm sure it was, it is quite obviously the only one you could make. The plane becomes secondary to the care of your wife. Both of you will be in my prayers. With the quality of workmanship on your Kitfox, I doubt it will be on the market for long. Best of luck to both of you and may God bless.

Rick

[jrevens]

Harlan, Jim and Rick,

Thank you all for the kind words. I sure wish I had built my Kitfox a little earlier in my life, but it's sure been a fun, but much too short run.

[airlina]

John, You were always a guy who when I saw you posted on the forum , I would go there first because of your building knowledge and great ideas for out kitfoxes. I really enjoyed following your posts during your build. Your decision is one all us old guys on the forum know we'll have to make at some point for one reason or another , and my best wishes and prayers to you and your wife. Was glad to meet you in person at OSH a few years back. Don't be a stranger on this forum we all apreciate your input. Bruce N199CL

[Dave S]

John,

Changes come and it has been said we will each know when it's time. I wish you and your wife all the luck in the world, our prayers are with you. I have always liked your contributions to the list.

One thing I know you will NEVER say "gee I wish I never built that plane"

Not sure right now; but, I may not be too far behind you- depends.

Dave

[Geek]

Well John I certainly understand life changes as we age. I'm So sorry to see you sell your kitfox, but I have great respect for you caring for your wife. God bless you both and I hope you hang around to give the great advice you have always given.

John I could not have said it better than Harlan did above. Massive respect for you not only as a builder but as a human being as well. You have given us all such great insight and ideas as an expert builder and airman.

Gary