Source: 2024 Q4 Beartracks, John Reddick
N776BE flew for the first time on Dec 6, 2024 after 6 1/2 years of on-and-off building. I actually only worked on it for 2 years and 4 months. I did numerous “off the ranch” things to the QB “B” model kit. All of that contributed to the extended build time. It was inspected by a DAR on October 30th, 2024.
I have about 5 hours flight time in 4 flights, most things working well. Sorting out a heavy left wing, and noise on the VHF com. The #6 cylinder gets hot pretty quick on climb out, despite it being 40-45 F outside. Other cylinders are fine in climb, and all are fine in cruise. Probably mislocated oil cooler flange (installer error). Other than that, going smoothly.
I think the two things that made the first flights much less stressful were 3.2 hours of transition training with Jared, and running the engine in on the ground for 2 hours (picture below). Both gave me a lot more confidence on the first flight.
My “off the ranch” mods were:
-Custom fold down instrument panel
-Composite tail fairing
-Electrical system
-SDS EFI/EI
-“Almost” 2 alternators
-“Almost” 2 batteries
The panel is a simple, single EFIS with a tablet, single com, and remote transponder. The EFI/EI turned a simple plane into a bit of a high school science project, wiring-wise. But I am most comfortable with EFI, and have done a huge amount of 12V wiring, including a business I had for 3 years. This may not be the best choice for someone who hates wiring.
I also used Oratex (which caused the composite tail fairing). If it lasts a long time I love it but it was tedious and time consuming to install.
Empty weight was 1403, CG was 7.1 inches (67 lbs on the tail). IO-540, 2 blade Trailblazer, full skylight. That weight is on small tires, and no back seat. That makes it the mid 1400’s with bigger tires and a back seat. I need 50 pounds of ballast with only front seat occupants.
It is exactly what I wanted when I ordered the kit. Like a lot of homebuilders, I always wanted to build an airplane. I even bought a set of plans when I was 15 or 16. I ended up flying for a living, and moved around so much I was never able to build one, until now.
Thanks to everyone on the forum for all the contributions. I knew what I was getting into before I bought the kit. Thanks to Jared for moderating a great forum, and Mark and Bob for the customer support.
I will put up some posts on my “off the ranch” stuff if anyone is interested.