Dual STI build log

[Shadowrider]

Sweet. I wish I could get some feedback on someone running it on a STI? Everyone keeps telling us that we don't want constant speed for a bush plane because of weight. Leaning towards a 80" catto. Also looking at the DUC props.

[aviator79]

Awesome. That'll be great that you guys can work together and help each other out. That Edge Performance engine really will want a constant speed prop. Paul Leadebrand told me that if he could choose either the turbo or the CS prop on a 912iS, that the prop wins hands down. He felt he couldn't take full advantage of the turbo 914 with a fixed pitch prop. He and John both rave about what an amazing combo the 914 and airmaster make. I'm sure the same will be true for your EP engine. IIRC, it'll cost you like 12 lbs. Not insignificant, but also not the thing that will keep you from clearing the trees on takeoff.

[Esser]

Natalie and I just got back from Stick and Rudder. She was in the 912iS with the AirMaster the whole time and I was in the 914UL with the fixed Whirlwind. They were probably 50lbs lighter than us.

The 914 had a hose stop so that it generally only made 100HP with no over boost.

We out climbed them everytime and the plane showed its stripes once the DA started getting above 5000' but they were faster and could catch us everytime in cruise. The AirMaster with a turbo should be the best of both worlds.

[wannafly]

This is very exciting. A friend and I are doing the same thing starting in October. Hoping for a 6 month build time( might be dreaming). Each building a sti. Lead the way and keep posting pictures.
For those with experience in building at what point do you want to have your engine? Can a lot be done before you start engine work or are there things you need to do on fire wall where the engine is required?

[efwd]

LOL. 6 month build, you better order your engine. sort of kidding. It took 2 months for me to receive my engine. There is a lot of work that can get done before engine. All the flight controls, floor, ELT any Autopilot servos if your using, Fabric, and you can finish your panel first as Carl did. Sounds like your going to build in the order Carl did. He might chime in.
Eddie

[Shadowrider]

We got our STI's. It was a long day.......left at 4am to drive to Homedale. Arrived after 10 am and left Homdale at 4pm to get home around 10pm. Whew!


Kitfox was great in helping us build a rack to store wings above the fuselages in the trailer. Brought 24 moving blankets and not one two many. Brandon's and his father-in-law helped get it all packed and ready for the road trip back to Utah, after we spent some time looking at Johns STI. Because it has the 915 and they are still testing, they can not give passengers rides in it. So we asked John if he would fly it for us quick? It was awesome to watch it fly. Still working on the numbers and what it will do, lets just say its impressive! Now the fun begins in getting these things built! I like pictures better than words, so here you go.

[Delta Whisky]

Not to hijack this thread . . . . BUT . . . . I thought those mountains in the background looked familiar. I flew out of Nephi for a couple of weeks during two summers not long past and while there hooked into the strongest thermal I've ever enjoyed just over your back yard - timed at over 1600 fpm!! You live in great flying county and I'm jealous.

I know, no picture - it didn't happen. This was taken flying around the peak of Mt. Nebo.

Good luck on your build - I'm only a couple of months ahead of you but your teamwork plan should have you in front in not too long.

My apologies for the hijacking - I couldn't resist.

[Shadowrider]

After reading, did what some others did and ground down the reamer to help get in some tight spots. Very helpful thanks!

[Shadowrider]

Also went with others recommendations and used superfil. Since we are going to cover with oratex I bought some balsa off amazon. Other forum recommendations!

[Shadowrider]

My son really wanted to buy a kitfox, but this is the best we could find. Tried to talk him out of spending his hard earned money, but this one did look fun!