Virago

Hey Alan, not sure if you have flaps in Kev's Sierra but if so, can you advise me the max airspeed for flap extension? Thanks mate! John.

I think the retrieval crews may have damaged it getting it out of the water. Earlier footage showed the aircraft substantially intact while submerged but all they dragged out was steel framework with the engine in it. BTW, the engine looked like a Rotax 100 ULS (judging by the colour of the rocker covers)

Hi Kev, Yes, I've held off making the long bench until the crate arrives. The freight and insurance is all organised so the crate should be on it's way shortly. What are you using to cut the long 6061 sheets? I can imagine that handling that big roll of aluminium sheets would have it's moments. 3M make an excellent industrial strength 2 pack adhesive that is often used in the aviation industry ... Scotchweld 2216 B/A. I've seen it used during structural repairs to a helicopter. I wonder if that 6mm tube for the brake lines could be glassed into each leg during the beefing up process? Would be nice to hide them. John.

Hi Kev, The Kit is in the crate at Taree ... just finalizing the freight and insurance before it comes over to the west. The workshop is just about ready ... can't wait to get started on the build. John.

Thanks Kevin, I feel quite confident about the 2200 engine now. I'm having electric trim and electric flaps. I've decided to go with MGL avionics ... I've ordered an MGL EXtreme Mini EFIS system (with AHRS, compass module and engine monitor module) and the MGL V-10 VHF COM radio. I guess I'll end up with quite a bare panel but I will also fit an ASI, altimeter, tacho and CHT as steam backups (and a whisky compass of course). The Mini EFIS does it all, even an onboard GPS (no moving map but I can live without that). My workshop is taking shape nicely now and I can't wait for the Sierra kit to arrive. John.

Thanks Kevin, I feel quite confident about the 2200 engine now. I'm having electric trim and electric flaps. I've decided to go with MGL avionics ... I've ordered an MGL EXtreme Mini EFIS system (with AHRS, compass module and engine monitor module) and the MGL V-10 VHF COM radio. I guess I'll end up with quite a bare panel but I will also fit an ASI, altimeter, tacho and CHT as steam backups (and a whisky compass of course). The Mini EFIS does it all, even an onboard GPS (no moving map but I can live without that). My workshop is taking shape nicely now and I can't wait for the Sierra kit to arrive. John.

Alan, Now that IS funny! Just to set your mind at rest, it won't be all concrete ... the framework and spars will be ... jarrah! John.

Hi Kevin, Thanks for the prompt reply and the good info! I've ordered the kit with the 2200 in mind but I thought I'd chase another opinion before the order got too set in concrete. I feel a lot better about sticking with the 2200 now ... I had been a bit concerned about weight distribution and it's reassuring to know there are 2200 powered Sierras already in operation. The Matco wheels sound good ... Garry is making the spats to suit 500x5 wheels so what you're using sounds like the way to go. Best regards, John.

Hi Kev, Your project is sure looking good! I have a Sierra kit on order and I'm using the waiting time to set up my workshop. just a couple of questions ... Which Matco wheel/brake kit did you choose (including axle diameter)? Also, what are your thoughts on a Jabiru 2200 for the Sierra including any possible C of G ramifications. I'm intending to use that engine and the fuselage tank. John.

The MGL Xtreme mini EFIS seems to be a well designed little unit! Ok, it's small but it would be right in front of most pilots. True, it needs the add-on items such as the AHRS, magnetometer (flux valve) and the engine monitor module but these can be added later as the budget allows. With our Aussie dollar soaring, the Mini PFD has just dipped to the Aud$1000 mark and considering all the instruments it has the potential to replace (ASI, altimeter, A/H, D.G., VSI, turn co-ordinator, tacho, manifold pressure, GPS, air data computer, fuel computer, fuel contents guage, CHT's and EGT's ... etc, to say nothing of the software upgradeability to run autopilot servos), I'm going to grab one for the Morgan Sierra kit I've got on order. John.

Thanks to everyone for the warm welcome. I'm based in Port Kennedy. W.A. and only a 20 minute drive from Serpentine airfield. I'll certainly keep a running blog during the construction. The only modification (if I can call it that) will be to fit electric flaps and probably Matco wheels and brakes. I'll be sticking with the fuselage tank ... I'll be needing a visit to the loo long before a visit to the bowser ... lol! I plan to fit the Jabiru 2200 as the object is to get back into the air ... not to set any new speed records! Cooling will be a matter of paramount concern during the firewall forward stage of construction. I will stay with the centre control stick as I feel quite at home with that having learnt to fly in a Victa 115 back in 1970. I have previously owned and flown a Beech Sundowner (VH-UMF) for five years and following that, a Beech Debonair (VH-DYT) for ten years. I honestly thought I had left aviation behind when I retired but the niggling thoughts are still there ... John.

Hi everyone! I've been watching these forums for some time now and following everyone's progress. As a result, I have just ordered the basic kit to build a Morgan Sierra 100. I am a retired radio LAME and have been a private owner (in the past) for many years. This will be my first homebuilt project and I can't wait for the kit to arrive. John.