Originally Posted by
bbutler455
Thanks to everyone that took the time to respond to an uneducated (i'm learning) newbie. I LOVE the idea of a tandem Aeronaca/Champion/Bellanca with a more powerful 90+ hp motor. If pressed, today, I am a builder who likes to fly rather than a flyer to likes to build. Also, I like restoring significant craft. For example, my boat is 16 years old but it is a 262 COBALT in perfect condition. The 262 was the best boat COBALT ever built. So, I would like spending my time bring back a deserving aircraft. This question is... do I try to stay within the bounds of Light Sport? It seems like many people have had their flying fun cut short by the medical requirements. I am 63, overweight, with meds for very slight borderline blood pressure. My back and knees are starting to complain about the extra weight so I plan to drop 50. (But I will still be Texas sized) Otherwise, for some reason, my yearly physical always come back excellent. (really pisses my doctor off). Maybe the reason I like the idea of Light Sport is because I loathe the government getting involved in my business. On the other hand, I'm cheap. I hate depreciation. Is a non-LSA vintage plane a better investment than the few craft that meet the LSA requirements? Will a non-LSA fill my weight issues and performance desires better? (STOL, mild aerobatics, weight)
Is there a Aeronaca/ Champion/ Bellanca that checks all the boxes and can fly LSA 1320lb rules? (Keep in mind that cheap thing) Is an Aeronaca 7EC (90hp) an LSA? can you modify a vintage plane to make it LSA?
Again, thanks and merry Christmas. Brock