What do all you guys think of converting my RV4 to tricycle gear?

I have been told to wheel land it at 80 MPH.

That is a field length penalty and a much worse crash if you screw up.

As I understand it they are dangerous in cross wind landings.
I have a friend with one that refuses to fly under sever cross wind
conditions.

Paul Lamar

   what do you think the added weight is, how does that impact fuel consumption and maneuverability? any other additional things you'd have to adjust to accommodate such gear? do you have a number on the runway length min and what does that mean in terms of actually limiting your field choices, based on typical (seems like if ur under 1500ft it would seldom be an issue?) totally just curious....
   best,
   jess


   It would add to the weight. At least what the nose gear would weigh over
   the tail wheel weight. Probably 20 to 30 pounds. The batteries are
   already in the baggage area so may be I would have to move them further back.

   I plan no aerobatics.

   I think I could get it into 1000 feet. If I ever get around to 250 HP P-porting
   and changing the gear box and prop I could get it out of 1000 feet as well
   depending on the obstructions.

   Stall speed is 48 MPH so that is a short field indeed with
   as full stall landing. I have 3000 hour making full stall landings :)
   Hard to relearn wheel landing at 80 MPH. Goes against ones instincts :)

   Paul Lamar





Dear Mr. Lamar:

I would check with the Kit manufacturer and ask IF they have any information regarding landing a Tricycle Gear RV4 in crosswinds. As they offer a Tricycle Gear option, they should have a chart or information about how it handles in crosswind landings, etc. that should be in the aircraft manual.

I would also ask the Kit manufacturer IF they could send you the name and addresses of several of their customers that have and fly a Tri Gear RV-4s. I would contact those individuals. I am sure Tri Gear RV-4 owners and operators could give you a lot of information based on experience how the Tri Gear RV-4 handles in cross winds.

I would also check on installing Vortrice Generators on your airplanes wings and tail to improve handling of your ariplane at low speeds.

All My Best

Brannen Sanders