KRnetters, I appreciate all your inputs, on and off-line. Some folks are not English majors nor diplomats, but I do understand what you are telling me. I have also consulted with two aeronautical engineers this past weekend. I have concluded:
My first question: Is an extra 25 hp worth an extra $9,000? An extra 25 hp, all other things considered equal, will result in a 10 percent speed increase. If I get 150 MPH with 75 hp, then I would get 165 MPH with 100 hp. Perhaps to some (or many) that is quite desirable, especially if money is no object. But then why are you building a KR aircraft? I want to build an economical performance airplane. I am not inclined to build my own engine. So, for me the answer is no. Second: Is an estimated extra 91 pounds empty weight on a KR-2 realistic? About 90 percent of this will be forward of the main spar and ahead of the firewall. My engineer friends estimate the gross weight will be 1050 pounds instead of 950 pounds. My KR-2 would have the CG at 0.2 inches ahead of the max forward CG from the plans at gross and 1.0 inch forward of max forward CG at VFR minimum fuel with just myself on board, no baggage. That was deemed flyable, but definitely not recommended. So, that answer is no. Third: How will the taller gear effect ground handling and flight characteristics? There would most likely be no discernable change in ground handling or flight characteristics with the taller gear. There was lots of concern for loading on the spar at the gear attach points due to increased strain from the longer gear legs especially during hard landings. Dan Diehl did recommend that I not use his aluminum castings with longer gear legs. The RG TT 2000 EFI is a wonderful engine development with the technology that I want. However, it is just not suitable for me and my KR-2. Others may find just the opposite for their aircraft, and I applaud them for their choice. I am opting for a direct-drive 2180 VW and standard Diehl tri-gear. Regards, Sid Wood, KR-2 N6242 Mechanicsville, MD sidney.w...@titan.com
