Decision to build...

FLYBLUE · Post by **FLYBLUE** » Sun Nov 07, 2004 3:59 pm

Hello all-

My name is Ben. I just joined today, however, I have been interested in building an RV 8 for some time. My new wife and I are pretty young and new in our respective careers. I am wondering if anyone lives in the Denver area that would be willing to rent hanger space to get started. I could also use advice from all as this is not only my first marriage but also my first kit!

Thanks-

Ben

captain_john · Post by **captain_john** » Sun Nov 07, 2004 4:32 pm

You don't need a hangar. Having known then what I know now I can safely say, start it in your basement! My garage will take me through most of the project, but it is significant overkill for an emp kit.

Congrats on the ball and chain ceremony!

CJ

Post by **Spike** » Sun Nov 07, 2004 4:32 pm

Welcome Ben !! Glad that you came to the site. Please stick around and have some fun. Im like you in that Im new to my marriage, pretty young, and just getting started in building (9A). I would say that once you have the support of the wife, its all downhill from there.

As far as a hangar, I would suggest doing it (or at least getting started) at home if at all possible. I know that if I had to go to my hangar to work I wouldnt be nearly as active. The other thing is to take your time and have fun, thats what its all about after all.

-- John

FLYBLUE · Post by **FLYBLUE** » Sun Nov 07, 2004 4:44 pm

Is the tail too big to get up the stairs?

Post by **Spike** » Sun Nov 07, 2004 4:47 pm

That begs the question of how big your stairs are

I live in a townhome and will be building both the tail and the wings in the basement. Dont count yourself out until you take measurements.

-- John

captain_john · Post by **captain_john** » Sun Nov 07, 2004 4:50 pm

Nope, the Horizontal Stabilizer is the largest part. it is under 100 inches long and maybe (I didn't actually measure it, but will do so if you like) 20 inches tall. You may even get the wings out your bulkhead too!

CJ

FLYBLUE · Post by **FLYBLUE** » Sun Nov 07, 2004 4:54 pm

OK I have the preview palns here, however, I simply never considered getting started in my basement.

Thanks guys

Ben

Brian · Post by **Brian** » Sun Nov 07, 2004 6:07 pm

Laws of successful RV building:

1. Acquire 100% spousal approval/support or it will NOT go well.
2. Build as much as possible at home in the garage. You won't build it if you have to drive to it. I spent only one month at the hangar before I was ready to fly my RV8. Hangars cost $$ too. Money better spent on airplane parts, insurance and training.
3. Do not ignore #1. EVER.
4. Reread law #3.
5. Do something on the project every day, no matter how trivial. Keep the momentum going. Get an RV ride, or several. RV drivers love to give rides. I know I do. I have five Van's referral checks as a result!
6. Keep the dream alive. Read, learn, absorb, study, help a local builder riveting/drilling/deburring, get the knowledge first.
7. If you visit Albuquerque, let me know. The back seat in my -8 is always ready to convince a prospective builder AND his spouse...either yeah or nay. Be forewarned though, it could be the most expensive free ride you'll ever get.

Regards,

Brian Denk
RV8 N94BD
RV10 '51 tailcone
akroguy@hotmail.com