RV-8
Scott Clarkson
My father Gary and I decided
to build the RV-8 from Van's Aircraft because their kits offer
airplanes with great performance at a reasonable price. I
chose the RV-8 because I like the fighter feel of tandem seating
and I love to fly taildraggers. This is the second plane I've
built, the first being a Fisher 404 that I keep in a hanger
with Bob Cook's Fisher Celebrity. The 404 is fun to fly but
it is only a single place airplane and not very fast. The
RV-8 on the other hand offers great speed, two seats, and
is capable of sport aerobatics.
I currently have an XP-360
(Lycoming clone) on order from Mattituck. I'm going with the
Precision/Bendix fuel injection, LASAR electronic ignition,
and 9.2:1 high compression pistons. It should be putting out
around 190 H.P. I also plan on running a constant speed propeller.
My VFR instrument panel
will have a Bendix/King KMD-150 GPS, KX-155 Nav/Com, KT-76A
transponder, and ACS 2002 engine monitor along with vacuum
gyros and standard flight instruments.
I started construction
on the 8 in the fall of 2001 and anticipate it being finished
sometime in 2004. I like working with sheet metal and Van's
kit's are very complete with clear plans and instructions.
I guess that's why they are the most popular homebuilt aircraft.
So far construction has been most enjoyable especially when
I'm tucked in the warm garage on freezing cold days.
Editor's Note: Scott
and Stacey are the proud parents of Ryan Scott Clarkson, born
12/31/02. Congratulations!
Canopy Left Side |
Fuselage Crate |
Gear Lined Up |
Instrument Panel |
Rear View: Flaps Down |
Vertical Stabilizer Rigger |
Full Panel Preview |
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