Deviations from a RV12 E-LSA to a RV12
Posted: Thu Aug 29, 2013 4:18 pm
During my build the deviations from a RV12 E-LSA to an EAB and why
Many on the forum can chime in the pros and cons to an EAB verses an ELSA. When I decided to build the RV12 my path was decided by Vans since I was going to use my ROTAX from another SLSA with less than 100 hours on it. I sold the frame and keep the avionics and ROTAX. Since I was not buying everything from VANs I was automatically forced to be an EAB. Building was followed for the main structure and the overall build. I follow the plans as provide by VANs for 95+%, where I deviated from the E-LSA are listed below and were done for the following enhancements, changes, and cosmetics.
My ROTAX had an external alternator so the cooling shroud , the cowling, and plumbing had to be modified. The cowling had to grow about an inch or two and reshape for the changes. But of room and additional 40 amps for the avionics
I chose to use Vertical Power for my electrical wiring and fuse system. So the electrical plans provided by VANs were worthless.
The Avionics were different since I upgraded from my older SLSA. Grand Rapids provide me a a great price to upgrade and used their autopilot and servos. The RV comes with Dynon and a junction box for all avionics; which is very good for the 12, but since I already had the equipment it was a no brainer, save the money.
I added an indicator for flaps which is not an option on the 12
A mechanical sight fuel gauge for the tank
I modified the rear bulkhead panel to allow for easy access without removing the tank. This allows for access for inspections
I chose to use a 3 blade prop – only rationale I think it looks good
I added a door in the radiator plenum and adjustable oil cooler shutter both are in-flight adjustable to help with the cooler temperatures in PA
Wheel pants are an option, but I added fairings for the upper and lower areas along with fiberglass fairings for the gear legs
Pure Cosmetics, Fiberglass horizontal stabilizer tips and Vertical stabilizer empennage fitting
A link to photos for the modifications on my website https://www.dropbox.com/sh/h2ugegywc14a0x9/oB7oqbLjnW
Pros to the EAB
I have the repairman certificate
Make changes as needed
Saved substantial $’s since I already had parts
Cons
Resale
The next owner will need an A&P to work on or sign off for conditionals or repair
I had a 40 hour phase I fly off verses the ELSA of 5 hours (no big deal fly was fun for the 40)
I am sure there are more regarding the Pros and Cons - comments
Many on the forum can chime in the pros and cons to an EAB verses an ELSA. When I decided to build the RV12 my path was decided by Vans since I was going to use my ROTAX from another SLSA with less than 100 hours on it. I sold the frame and keep the avionics and ROTAX. Since I was not buying everything from VANs I was automatically forced to be an EAB. Building was followed for the main structure and the overall build. I follow the plans as provide by VANs for 95+%, where I deviated from the E-LSA are listed below and were done for the following enhancements, changes, and cosmetics.
My ROTAX had an external alternator so the cooling shroud , the cowling, and plumbing had to be modified. The cowling had to grow about an inch or two and reshape for the changes. But of room and additional 40 amps for the avionics
I chose to use Vertical Power for my electrical wiring and fuse system. So the electrical plans provided by VANs were worthless.
The Avionics were different since I upgraded from my older SLSA. Grand Rapids provide me a a great price to upgrade and used their autopilot and servos. The RV comes with Dynon and a junction box for all avionics; which is very good for the 12, but since I already had the equipment it was a no brainer, save the money.
I added an indicator for flaps which is not an option on the 12
A mechanical sight fuel gauge for the tank
I modified the rear bulkhead panel to allow for easy access without removing the tank. This allows for access for inspections
I chose to use a 3 blade prop – only rationale I think it looks good
I added a door in the radiator plenum and adjustable oil cooler shutter both are in-flight adjustable to help with the cooler temperatures in PA
Wheel pants are an option, but I added fairings for the upper and lower areas along with fiberglass fairings for the gear legs
Pure Cosmetics, Fiberglass horizontal stabilizer tips and Vertical stabilizer empennage fitting
A link to photos for the modifications on my website https://www.dropbox.com/sh/h2ugegywc14a0x9/oB7oqbLjnW
Pros to the EAB
I have the repairman certificate
Make changes as needed
Saved substantial $’s since I already had parts
Cons
Resale
The next owner will need an A&P to work on or sign off for conditionals or repair
I had a 40 hour phase I fly off verses the ELSA of 5 hours (no big deal fly was fun for the 40)
I am sure there are more regarding the Pros and Cons - comments