Apologies in advance for asking questions that are likely answered many times over and buried here in the forums somewhere (although I've been unsuccessful locating them).
I am going to build a Skybolt. I currently own and fly a Vans RV8 which I did not build. I only expect to build one aeroplane in my lifetime (I'm pushing 50), and have always wanted to own a biplane. I have vacillated between the Pitts, Acroduster, Christen Eagle and the Skybolt. Every time I come back to the Skybolt. The flying qualities, ground handling, lines, and three-part top wing always draw me in. Before I pony up for plans, I want to chase away the last few 'building demons' that are telling me 'no'. I've never built anything like an aeroplane before, but am pretty handy - I rarely hire a tradesperson for stuff around the house. And I can follow instructions. I am based in Australia, so freight is an absolute killer.
1. Is the Skybolt an achievable build for a first-time builder?
2. (Related to 1) There are options with Steen to buy a pre-fab fuse, cabane, landing gear, etc. I wouldn't know MIG from TIG from Gas from stick (ok, I can stick weld but it looks like bird ****). Is it an exercise in futility and frustration to source the stock locally and fabricate my own fuse from plans, or should I buy pre-fab?
4. What are the must-have tools (think 'rivet gun' for an RV)?
5. Is a single 19'x9' garage doable for component parts?
6. What is the typical build order (wings>fuse>FWF>avionics>finishing, etc.)?
7. Has anyone with no engine experience safely re-built an IO360 or IO540?
Thanks in advance.
I am going to build a Skybolt. I currently own and fly a Vans RV8 which I did not build. I only expect to build one aeroplane in my lifetime (I'm pushing 50), and have always wanted to own a biplane. I have vacillated between the Pitts, Acroduster, Christen Eagle and the Skybolt. Every time I come back to the Skybolt. The flying qualities, ground handling, lines, and three-part top wing always draw me in. Before I pony up for plans, I want to chase away the last few 'building demons' that are telling me 'no'. I've never built anything like an aeroplane before, but am pretty handy - I rarely hire a tradesperson for stuff around the house. And I can follow instructions. I am based in Australia, so freight is an absolute killer.
1. Is the Skybolt an achievable build for a first-time builder?
2. (Related to 1) There are options with Steen to buy a pre-fab fuse, cabane, landing gear, etc. I wouldn't know MIG from TIG from Gas from stick (ok, I can stick weld but it looks like bird ****). Is it an exercise in futility and frustration to source the stock locally and fabricate my own fuse from plans, or should I buy pre-fab?
4. What are the must-have tools (think 'rivet gun' for an RV)?
5. Is a single 19'x9' garage doable for component parts?
6. What is the typical build order (wings>fuse>FWF>avionics>finishing, etc.)?
7. Has anyone with no engine experience safely re-built an IO360 or IO540?
Thanks in advance.
