Just a newb lurking and reading

[Joeschmo]

Hi all,

I guess a little intro couldn’t hurt. My aviation background is Army 67N utility helicopter Uh-1H Huey. I love flying, but I’m not yet a pilot. I’ve become one with low and slow. These aircraft seem to be low and slow, as well as budget friendly.

I’m a big fellow, as are my close friends. We are so not able to maintain part 103. And sport pilot is the way to go. I am seriously considering the DE/CE family. I have loads of questions before seeking plans.

Very familiar with VW engines on the ground. Ok I’m getting to some questions, finally.

Regarding the DE.

Can the fuse be built like a very big single seat? To suit the size of pilot? I keep reading the phrase build it light, every where.


There does not seem to be any provision for “flaps”. Is there a specific reason?

I think our mission is going to be off run way camping desert style. Possibly very much STOL. Cruising at 50-60 is where we are going to be, as well as all VFR. This is all just supposition at the moment.

I’ve also read the C/G issues, staying as close to 30% of cord as possible, is key to quality flight performance. This is probably going to be really important for a STOL based mission.

Here’s me a newb.

Thanks

Joe

[Joeschmo]

Forgot to mention. I a have about 25+ yrs as a machinist, and woodwork hobby. One of the guys has an associates in a&p as well as taught. Didn’t go for the cert though. The other guy in our trifecta worked the cats on an aircraft carrier. Those to knuckle heads are also blacksmiths too.

Ok that’s our respective short forms.

Originally, came here looking for ultralights, but found bigger possibilities.

Joe

[Dan_]

Joe,
Yer gonna fit right in here...  The thing not to do is not speaking up when you have a question. 

We all start off in the same place and go from there.
If you don't get an answer keep popping off...
Thanks for your service.

[Joeschmo]

Thanks Dan,

The KISS philosophy hold just as true here as any where else.

I have a bit of time to read, research and ask, before I decide which plans to acquire.

Joe

[Kamcoman77]

Welcome to the Eagler's Nest! The Double Eagle is a very simple, very strong, low cost way to own an Experimental Amateur Built airplane. The 4-cylinder VW aero engine has been safely flying homebuilts since the 1960's. If you haven't seen them already, go to YouTube and Search for "Jeremy Dunn Double Eagle" videos. He is building his DE to be a single seat because he is a "big guy". His first five videos about building the fuselage should give you some good information. No flaps keep the design simple and it appears they are not needed. Also look at Grant Booth's DE videos. His is flying and looks great.

[Joeschmo]

Thanks kamcoman77.

Heading off down another rabbit hole!

Joe

[Sylvain]

If you whant infos about the airframe build: Go to  YouTube and Search for "Jeremy Dunn Double Eagle". They are invaluable!

[Joeschmo]

I watched the first 7 videos last night. He has a way about his work that is very interesting to watch.

[Joeschmo]

Hi all.  I just finished watching Jeremy Dunn’s videos. I must say, he makes it look easy. Lots of good info, imho.

[Joeschmo]

I am still wondering. Perhaps some one has an answer?

Would one(builder) decide to add flaps during the building and assembly of their wings, would this be a negative, or produce a negative flying condition?

I am looking at the de or ce, to be built, trailerable, and flown mainly into off strip conditions in and around the south west desert areas, very short landing and take off missions.

I really appreciate Les Holmans videos packing his lexls into a customized toy box trailer.

As well as Jeremy Dunn’s build videos.

I do understand that major departures from the plan equal 1-10 changes, and potential long ( also immediate  ) issues.

I have always wanted to fly, but not fast, more very low and very slow. Very very slow indeed.

Many thanks in advance

Joe

[jrbirdman47]

I wouldn't say don't do it but there are other designs which already have such features and wouldn't require modifications and all the unknowns that come with them. The LE series planes may be lacking in some areas, but drag isn't one of them, so the addition of flaps may be unnecessary.

[okdonn]

Have you seen the "Swamp Monster" series of videos? He took a basic no-flaps airplane and made it into an STOL craft ...

You might get some ideas (maybe too many).
I'd think that a DE with slats or drooped leading edge and leaving the fuselage uncovered would do what you want without complicating the wing folding exercise with flaps and their controls. Or, you could create a DE dessert monster ...

[Joeschmo]

Hey Okdonn, desert monster is a suitable mission description. Thanks for the vid share.

[Kamcoman77]

Desert Monster is a highly modified Woody's Pusher. Here is a link to plans. You might want to compare it to a DE or CE before you think about modifying any Eagle designs. https://buildandfly.shop/product/woody-pusher/ I do not think any of the Eagle designs lend themselves to multiple modifications for STOL unless you get a structural engineer involved. Then..... $$$$$ !

[Joeschmo]

Thank you for the heads up. As soon as I’m back to work in the new year. I plan to purchase all four sets of plans. My a&p buddy has just retired, we are going to look at a property that has a hanger and airstrips next week.

We both want to build a basic lexl, and potentially a de/ce. We both enjoy the build process as well as maintaining aircraft.

Flight school next year for me.