Report on Skyraider

I recently posted a RFI on the single seat Skyraider who's manufacturer insists can be made to meet Part 103 weight limits. I was able to actually inspect an N numbered version of this aircraft a couple of weeks ago. The weight and balance for the certificate was just over 300 pounds. The aircraft in question had a 2Si model 40 good instrumentation and a what looked like most of the interior package. Other equipment included side doors, a soft pack BRS, Powerfin prop and some pretty study looking wheels and tires. I can see where perhaps 30 or 40 pounds could easily be removed but after that I am not sure what all you could stip out. Things I observed that would lighten this aircraft:
remove doors
goto lighter wood prop
lighter wheels and rims
small instrument package and lighter weight panel
replace tail wheel assembly with skid
smaller fuel tank (this one had 10 gallons)
strip the interior

Bottom line: you might get close but would have a very stripped down machine. I liked what I saw though have no illusions about 2Si engine longevity. The only negative I have heard is that it takes a bit of learning to master the heel brakes as they are used for ground steering because the rudder has little authority until at least 30mph and there is no tail wheel steering.

Art

FlyDiver wrote:

remove doors
goto lighter wood prop
lighter wheels and rims
small instrument package and lighter weight panel
replace tail wheel assembly with skid
smaller fuel tank (this one had 10 gallons)
strip the interior

I think if you make the entire instrument panel removable it is 'baggage' and does not count against you.
Also, if you use a 'chute' you may gain a coupla lbs there over the weight of the chute. What do they allow, 15 lbs?

GeoB

What is that lovely crankshaft avatar/pic from?
GeoB

Current ACs to part 103 allow 25 pounds for a chute. It can be any kind of chute as long as it is deployable but only the chute weight counts.

The crankshaft is the new 3 bearing crank for a Vener 133MK. Definitely not an ultralight engine although for 134.2 pounds its 84hp and 88ft/lbs of torque may be worth the hassle of going through the experimental hoops. I just parted out my old Verner engine and will be upgrading to the new fuel injected, turbo charged version come spring.

Art