dgb@mgwess.UUCP (Donald Beahm) (09/17/85)
While I haven't personally built the above kit I have had several hours experience with Eagle's both in building the raw kit and rebuilding the wreckage after the first hour of flight. The kit is not hard to build, but the construction practices leave something to be desired. I would suggest that unless you are an A & P, you find one willing to look over your shoulder and adise you on good technique. I worked with an IA on the rebuild (insurance job) who pointed out many things that are not done correctly in the kit. When it comes to flying the EAGLE again get some help from an expert in flying the Pitt's or the Eagle. Even if you have stick time and taildragger time this machine is a new ball game. It takes very light stick forces to control it(three fingers max on the stick). Once it is up and flying be prepared for a lot of maintence to keep it flying. This type of aircraft is prone to shaking itself apart in various places depending on the maneuvers performed etc. I would also suggest that for the first few hours of operation a grass strip be used (much more forgiving). Also a low traffic area and hopefully a nice wide strip i.e. min 100' wide to put down on. When it comes to painting read and head the methods for the various paints. The one we rebuild had improper preperation for IMRON and it came off in sheets. Fabric can be painted with IMRON with proper preperation. Beware of 'good deal' engines/props. I've seen 4 different Eagles with these component failures i.e. wrong mags, no impulse starter, wrong counter weights, bad crankshafts, cracked cylinders and cases and the list goes on. Overall once the bugs are out of it it is a beautiful machine to fly and watch fly. It does demand all of your attention at all times however. Good Flying.