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New to Vans - looking at RV6

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TheNewGuy

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Hi guys. I’m new to vans and the experimental community. I’m attracted to a couple aircraft with low time engines. One is a RV6 and the other is a Rans S-19.

I know vans are well regarded and well supported. The two planes are roughly the same price with a 10+ year difference in age.

I’m 6’4 200lbs. I’m curious how well I’d fit in an RV6. The Rans S-19 is attractive too and I know I fit but I don’t know how well it would sell when it comes to parting ways. Hope these aren’t stupid questions - I’m always learning!

Thanks.
 
Im 6“0 and 210 and I have a long torso. I needed to cut the seat cushion down to 1“ so my headset would not scrape the canopy. I built an RV-7 and I purchased an RV-6. Depending on what headset you use you might have more room
 
sahrens said:
Im 6“0 and 210 and I have a long torso. I needed to cut the seat cushion down to 1“ so my headset would not scrape the canopy. I built an RV-7 and I purchased an RV-6. Depending on what headset you use you might have more room
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Thanks. I use In-ear but that's good to know. I'll have to find one to sit in
 
A major part of your decision making process should be to decide if your only goal is to own any airplane that you can get off the ground and fly, or if there is a specific mission you foresee for the future (this can be a bit difficult sometimes because if a person has never owned their own airplane that is available any time they want to fly, with the freedom to go where ever they want, for how ever long they want).

The reason I mention this is because the S-19 and RV-6 are very different airplanes, with very different capabilities.

Just a few differences

Speed
Full fuel range
Useful load (which directly translates to a potentially different baggage capacity depending on weight of occupants)
Approval for Aerobatics
Resale value (you already mentioned this one)
 
rvbuilder2002 said:
A major part of your decision making process should be to decide if your only goal is to own any airplane that you can get off the ground and fly, or if there is a specific mission you foresee for the future (this can be a bit difficult sometimes because if a person has never owned their own airplane that is available any time they want to fly, with the freedom to go where ever they want, for how ever long they want).

The reason I mention this is because the S-19 and RV-6 are very different airplanes, with very different capabilities.

Just a few differences

Speed
Full fuel range
Useful load (which directly translates to a potentially different baggage capacity depending on weight of occupants)
Approval for Aerobatics
Resale value (you already mentioned this one)
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I forgot to type RV-12 as well. I like how the RV6 performs, but also like the fuel efficiency of the 12 and S-19. I am not interested in acrobatics. mainly concerned with flying solo or with a friend. Full tanks would be great with 2 people but I can work around that. I'd like to build a couple hundred more hours but have the freedom to work on my own plane as I have an extensive history rebuilding cars and engines. I am scheduled to take a course to work on experimentals when I purchase one
 
Are Van's easy to sell? My father is helping me purchase on as he is getting heart burn about experimentals. He's not in aviation but the people ive talked to at my airport say if you want an experimental, buy a vans. Otherwise he wants a Tecnam because they are Italian and certified. I also like the Rans S-19, especially since it has tanks in the wings but I know they have a niche market.
 
Well built Van's aircraft are very easy to re-sell at a reasonable price based on current market conditions.

A flight school I know of is getting a bit tired of the logistics of depending on a European supply chain for their Tecnam repairs (container ships are slow moving) and is looking to add a used American product to their fleet. Food for thought.
 
If Dad wants a Tecnam, let him help you buy it. For that price, you should be looking at an RV10 or RV14, not a Rans anything or an RV12 or RV6..

You should spend some time in earnest getting know your airplanes so you can make a good decision. You’re all over the place…..
As Scott said, define your mission.
 
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JonJay said:
If Dad wants a Tecnam, let him help you buy it. For that price, you should be looking at an RV10 or RV14, not a Rans anything or an RV12 or RV6..

You should spend some time in earnest getting know your airplanes so you can make a good decision. You’re all over the place…..
As Scott said, define your mission.
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Only time building and IFR capable
 
TheNewGuy said:
Hi guys. I’m new to vans and the experimental community. I’m attracted to a couple aircraft with low time engines. One is a RV6 and the other is a Rans S-19.

I know vans are well regarded and well supported. The two planes are roughly the same price with a 10+ year difference in age.

I’m 6’4 200lbs. I’m curious how well I’d fit in an RV6. The Rans S-19 is attractive too and I know I fit but I don’t know how well it would sell when it comes to parting ways. Hope these aren’t stupid questions - I’m always learning!

Thanks.
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As an RV6 owner, I am 6'3" 33" inseam, 235lb. I have regularly gone for 3 hours without much discomfort. Of course, it is tight with two large people, but with the wife, it's fine. She's 5'10" and 135lb. I don't really like to take a 200lb+ passenger, although I have quite a few times; it's tight. An average 170LB person is OK.
I fit fine with regular headsets, and I have about 1"1/2 or so clearance.
I use earplug-type Clarity Aloft headsets. My reason being they stay put playing around. They give a little more headroom if you need it.
 
DNeufeld said:
As an RV6 owner, I am 6'3" 33" inseam, 235lb. I have regularly gone for 3 hours without much discomfort. Of course, it is tight with two large people, but with the wife, it's fine. She's 5'10" and 135lb. I don't really like to take a 200lb+ passenger, although I have quite a few times; it's tight. An average 170LB person is OK.
I fit fine with regular headsets, and I have about 1"1/2 or so clearance.
I use earplug-type Clarity Aloft headsets. My reason being they stay put playing around. They give a little more headroom if you need it.
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Thank you. I think I am going to pull the trigger on an RV6. I think it would be perfect for me
 
TheNewGuy said:
Thank you. I think I am going to pull the trigger on an RV6. I think it would be perfect for me
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Best plane ever.
You can nearly replicate RV-12 fuel efficiency at RV-12 speeds in an RV-6 with appropriate leaning.

1777342560705.png
I think the fuel flow was probably closer to 4 gph. I usually run 60% power at a bit under 8 gph.
 
TheNewGuy said:
Dang! That’s great. What engine/power setting was that when you took the photo?
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Info is in his signature at the bottom of the post.

I have an RV-6A with an O-360 as well, but with a fixed pitch prop, and can match those performance numbers but for local flying I do a little faster... about 140 at 5.5 GPH or so.
 
TheNewGuy said:
Dang! That’s great. What engine/power setting was that when you took the photo?
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It's an O-360. Besides the RPM, MAP, % power, and FF pictured, what are you curious about?

Like Scott, I normally fly faster when I'm going somewhere (!55 KTAS - 60% power - maybe 7.8 gph when I'm in no particular rush). I fly around 120 KIAS when I might have to dodge pelicans or other aircraft while nearing the traffic pattern. It's comforting to know that I can bury the stick in an evasive maneuver without a thought to overstressing the RV.
 
Get the 6!!!
It’s a great, fun, versatile, wickedly fun, strong, capable, awesome machine. And acro?? You don’t like it?? Wait till the first roll in the 6 and say that again slow….

Okay seriously, I love them all…. I just love 4’s and 6’s more!!!

And this mumbo jumbo about fuel efficiency??

You need 180hp and constant speed prop and crank that bad boy up to 2550 and let er rip!!!!

Nuthing better that screamin around burning gas and having a regular ball ( lookin for someone to pick on, next) with nowhere to go and no time to be there!!!

Oh yeah…you can go places too when you get bored of all the fun stuff.

They’re pretty easy to sell and all around it’s a great airplane. My 12 year old is learning to fly and takes off and lands it like a big dog with only the occasional nudge here and there from Dad.

Can’t say enough about em!!! ( not that I’m biased, mind you…)
 
justa6ereh said:
And this mumbo jumbo about fuel efficiency??

You need 180hp and constant speed prop and crank that bad boy up to 2550 and let er rip!!!!
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This! Buying/ building a fast plane to fly it slow? That's like the guy that has a 67 GTO and putters around on Sunday's at 23mph. We Ain't That Old Yet!! :ROFLMAO:
 
Where are you located? I’m sure this forum can help you find a local RV group to sit in one.

The pedals are adjustable (by moving 6 bolts) so you can make room for long legs. You can also remove the back seat cushion if you need too. Some have also moved the pilot seat back an inch an a half by riveting in some new piano hinge.

The local RV’s groups are probably the best part of owning one, highly encourage you to get involved in one!
 
Jjackh10 said:
This! Buying/ building a fast plane to fly it slow? That's like the guy that has a 67 GTO and putters around on Sunday's at 23mph. We Ain't That Old Yet!! :ROFLMAO:
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I would rather have a 1970, 442 Oldsmobile, 4-speed manual Hurst, Holley 4-baral, Posi differential, dual tuned exhaust ride myself -- even if you're only going 23 mph, it still slams you into your seat each time you "romp on the gas".(y):cool:(y)

1777410402244.png
 
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Everyone’s concern is valid, It would be a sin if I cruise slow in her. Don’t y'all worry, I’ll be giving her the beans often and plan on learning to do light acrobatics in it. I’ll find one to sit in the meantime, but my A&P is confident I’ll fit. I use clarity alofts, and I’m all leg so my fingers are crossed.

I’ve posted separately but anyone have good leads on interior kits? This one does not have panels or siding. Just the seats. Thanks
 
mybombshells said:
@TheNewGuy dont worry about fancy interior stuff, keep it lite. Make sure the seats are comfortable for you.
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I appreciate the reply. My main goal was to quiet the cabin as much as possible, but realistically it isn’t going to be effective without something sound SoundEx. Bare minimum I would like armrests for my pax if I can find them
 
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TheNewGuy said:
I appreciate the reply. My main goal was to quiet the cabin as much as possible, but realistically it isn’t going to be effective without something sound SoundEx. Bare minimum I would like armrests for my pax if I can find them
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RV6 is best controlled with a good pair of noise canceling headsets as for making the passenger comfortable make it comfy for you, most of the time you will by yourself and the passenger will be just happy to be with you and will adjust to whatever is presented to them. Keep it light.
 
TheNewGuy said:
I appreciate the reply. My main goal was to quiet the cabin as much as possible, but realistically it isn’t going to be effective without something sound SoundEx. Bare minimum I would like armrests for my pax if I can find them
Click to expand...
As Norman said, the 6 I bought was loaded with insulation. I tore it all out, along with a bunch of other unnecessary weight, and lost almost 20 lbs. I couldn't tell the difference with my headsets. Sierra, Halo, clarity Aloft, comfortably quiet with any of them. No louder than my Cessna.
 
Ian,
I’ve built and owned two RV6’s (and other RV’s). I’ve also flown several RV7A’s and RV9A’s. This is what I can say about the comfort/fit about all of them. The fit is almost identical with all of them. I’m 6’1” and weigh 205 with a 32” inseam, so I’m long in the torso. All three of those airplanes have the same distance between the canopy rails and use the one and only canopy bubble that fits this frame. There are a couple other canopy companies, but they all fit the same airframe, so size should be the same. The RV7 & 9 have different seat pan ribs (1 inch lower), so it may give you a bit more headroom. I have RV7 seat pan ribs in my RV6. I also have installed the Anti-Splat Aero “Almost 14” seat back mod, which will move your seatback aft a little to give you more room between you and the IP, and will give you a little more headroom. This can be installed on a finished airplane, which I did (after I built the airplane), but couldn’t capitalize on its full capabilities because of the lowered seat pan ribs. Taxiing, I could see virtually nothing straight ahead with my seatback all the way back in the new configuration. I modified my seatback so that I still had a comfortable seating position, but could still see where I was going when taxiing.

I’m saying all this to emphasize that if everything about an airplane you are considering fits your needs, but needs a little help with fitting your body, options exist that you can fairly easily do yourself. If you don’t feel comfortable ever bending a wrench, then your best option is to try it out for size. And I don’t mean just sitting on the ground. Fly it and see of the visibility, seat comfort, etc fits, particularly in the traffic pattern, landing, and taxiing. There’s been some pretty healthy guys flying RV6’s for a long time. That airplane probably has the best safety record of any RV design. Good luck.
 
I use clarity aloft for acro, but they’re no match for a good noise cancelling set if you’re going places… but for fun they work great.

Keep it light, have a ball… they’re hard to beat.

I take my 6ft5” son and 6’3 son in law in the 6 and they both do fine.
 
justa6ereh said:
I use clarity aloft for acro, but they’re no match for a good noise cancelling set if you’re going places… but for fun they work great.

Keep it light, have a ball… they’re hard to beat.

I take my 6ft5” son and 6’3 son in law in the 6 and they both do fine.
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I hope separately!
 
No… one hunches on his knees in the baggage compartment with no seat belt and says he likes the floaty feeling….


Yes. Separately.


( Scott… note… humor)
 
Norm… I opted for the “fat boy” baggage compartment, with the lexan floor so when he sees the ground, he can stop screaming… I wear my Zulu3’s when I take the son in law…does a great job of cancelling out the whining.

He found the baggage hold downs and despite a couple of minus 3g “oops” maneuvers, that little buggar has managed to defy gravity and prove he has a heck of a grip….


( again, to clarify…I am kidding….there is no fat boy baggage compartment that I’m aware of)
 
I don't think anybody has mentioned it yet; Just so you know when your sitting in airplanes to evaluate fit or whatever; The RV6 & 7 are basically the same dimensions, but the seat pans in the RV7 are about an inch lower than they are in the 6 so you have some built in extra head room in the 7.
 
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Desert Rat said:
I don't think anybody has mentioned it yet; Just so you know when your sitting in airplanes to evaluate fit or whatever; The RV6 & 7 are basically the same dimensions, but the seat pans in the RV7 are about an inch lower than they are in the 6 so you have some built in extra head room in the 7.
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That is good to know. I’m sure I’ll end up modding it to accommodate my needs. I am hoping the pre-buy goes great. I found the original builder here but I haven’t heard back from him. This plane was his first build and he seems to be well-regarded in this community. Hopefully I can get in touch with him and learn more about this build.
 
Mission, mission, mission. Pavement to pavement ? Pavement to river bottom / gravel bar?
Never hardly ever leave the pattern? Grass field to pasture, checking on live stock? What’s the mission?
 
Jaypratt said:
Mission, mission, mission. Pavement to pavement ? Pavement to river bottom / gravel bar?
Never hardly ever leave the pattern? Grass field to pasture, checking on live stock? What’s the mission?
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Flying around the country in. Grass, Paved, high altitude flying when desired. Starting to look at RV7s to since I’ll fit better
 
If high-altitude flying is part of your mission, you might also consider the RV-9/-A. The fuselage and cockpit are the same as the RV-7/-A but the wing is completely different, excelling at high altitude in cruise and in high density altitude operations. You'd be giving up aerobatics in exchange for better altitude performance, better fuel burn, more efficient cruise, lower stall speed.
 
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MacCool said:
If high-altitude flying is part of your mission, you might also consider the RV-9/-A. The fuselage and cockpit is the same as the RV-7/-A but the wing is completely different, excelling at high altitude in cruise and in high density altitude operations. You'd be giving up aerobatics in exchange for better altitude performance, better fuel burn, more efficient cruise, lower stall speed.
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I would be doing more aerobatics than flying in the mountains. It would be the occasional trip but it’s a trade off I’m willing to accept so I’ve been looking at the 9 as well.
 
TheNewGuy said:
Hi guys. I’m new to vans and the experimental community. I’m attracted to a couple aircraft with low time engines. One is a RV6 and the other is a Rans S-19.

I know vans are well regarded and well supported. The two planes are roughly the same price with a 10+ year difference in age.

I’m 6’4 200lbs. I’m curious how well I’d fit in an RV6. The Rans S-19 is attractive too and I know I fit but I don’t know how well it would sell when it comes to parting ways. Hope these aren’t stupid questions - I’m always learning!

Thanks.
Click to expand...
The challenge with fitting into an RV-6 is the location of your head. The further back one must sit, the lower the canopy becomes. Changing the seat cushion thickness will accommodate nearly every pilot, but at the expense of visibility over the instrument panel at three-point attitude. Taller folks, especially the longer legged, need the seat back located further aft. I am 5'10", and long in the legs. I have the lower end of the seat back at the aft position, and the upper end of the seat back leaned all the way aft at the top in order to have room for my headset, making the airplane surprisingly blind. To compensate, I sit on extra cushions to get my head up as high as possible, putting my headset into the canopy until the cushions compress. I would like to sit even higher if I could. S-turns while taxiing are very necessary.
 
Ramjet said:
The challenge with fitting into an RV-6 is the location of your head. The further back one must sit, the lower the canopy becomes. Changing the seat cushion thickness will accommodate nearly every pilot, but at the expense of visibility over the instrument panel at three-point attitude. Taller folks, especially the longer legged, need the seat back located further aft. I am 5'10", and long in the legs. I have the lower end of the seat back at the aft position, and the upper end of the seat back leaned all the way aft at the top in order to have room for my headset, making the airplane surprisingly blind. To compensate, I sit on extra cushions to get my head up as high as possible, putting my headset into the canopy until the cushions compress. I would like to sit even higher if I could. S-turns while taxiing are very necessary.
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Is this actually any better in the 7? The 7 uses the same canopy. They made the floor ribs less tall to gain some headroom. So I'd think the sight picture would be no better.
 
blaplante said:
Is this actually any better in the 7? The 7 uses the same canopy. They made the floor ribs less tall to gain some headroom. So I'd think the sight picture would be no better.
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I agree.... The sight picture has everything to do where your head and eyes are in relation to the canopy. Not where your butt is placed...
 
Ramjet said:
Changing the seat cushion thickness will accommodate nearly every pilot, but at the expense of visibility over the instrument panel at three-point attitude.
Click to expand...
Seat cushion thickness has no relevance to how good of an over the nose visibility someone can have…
If we assume that seat cushions adjusted for the highest seating position possible for any given person, regardless of their height, their eyes would be at the same elevation relative to the ground as anyone else.
I do agree that the fore and aft position of someone’s head does have an influence on how high they can have their sight line, but that is different from how much seat cushion you are or aren’t sitting on.
Regardless, I agree that sitting height is very important for pilot performance when landing. A large percentage of the pilots in the RV community sit way too low.
 
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Fwiw, I'm also 5'10“ and have my seat back. I find visibility in flight to be just fine, on the ground I loosen my shoulder straps and lean forward. That raises my head into the higher portion of the canopy and allows me to see over the nose adequately to taxi without looking like I'm drunk...
 
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