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Companion Build Time?

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  • Companion Build Time?

    I have been watching some build videos on YouTube and this looks more doable than I had previously thought with the Quick Build Kits. YES the idea of the panel/avionics and engine are still very intimidating although I was good with Legos as a kid

    What is a reasonable expectation for a Companion build for a first time builder?

    Thanks in advance
    N678C
    https://eaabuilderslog.org/?blprojec...=7pfctcIVW&add
    Revo Sunglasses Ambassador
    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ0...tBJLdV8HB_jSIA

  • #2
    We say 1,000 hours to build kits recently made Jay. With all the steps now being done at the kit factory that used to be done by builders. Being a first time builder and having to learn some new skills, you might take a little more time. Your ability to look at and understand the plans factors in. As well as your experience using tools and working on things. Mark

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    • #3
      Thanks for the honest answer. I love the plane!!! And watching a guy assemble his 4 place online it looks super doable
      N678C
      https://eaabuilderslog.org/?blprojec...=7pfctcIVW&add
      Revo Sunglasses Ambassador
      https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ0...tBJLdV8HB_jSIA

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      • #4
        I'm working on a Model A QB kit. I'll definitely be over 1000 hours but, like Mark says, there have been a bunch of improvements that will speed up your build.

        So far there hasn't really been anything that was hard to do. I was intimidated by the panel and the electrical system when I started as well but I've actually found that the most interesting and satisfying part so far. I had never wired anything more complicated than a utility trailer before but, with a bit - actually a lot - of research, it wasn't that bad.
        4-Place QB kit #111. First flight May 2022.
        IO-470 - 260hp

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        • #5
          Jay, good to see you come over and check it out. I had commented and Dave had posted photos in your thread on SuperCub - so if you need more photos or info from a builder in process let us know.
          pb

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          • #6
            I am building a Companion from the kit and I think Mark's number is on target. It will help if you:

            - Stick to the design and avoid the temptation to make modifications
            - Use Bearhawk Tips and consider buying some of the other builder's manuals like Eric Newton's (more oriented to scratch builds but there is a wealth of useful information included)
            - Search the forum and ask questions when you are confused or can't decide on how to approach something
            - Remember that perfection is a goal, not a destination

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            • #7
              Originally posted by 500AGL View Post
              Jay, good to see you come over and check it out. I had commented and Dave had posted photos in your thread on SuperCub - so if you need more photos or info from a builder in process let us know.
              pb
              My first choice would be a BH Companion with a 180-200hp engine.

              The slow speed capabilities along with the fast cruise seems to be the ultimate combination. REALLY impressive.

              2020 would have been a perfect year for me to build as I only worked 6 weeks, coulda built one start to finish no problem with my OCD personality
              N678C
              https://eaabuilderslog.org/?blprojec...=7pfctcIVW&add
              Revo Sunglasses Ambassador
              https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ0...tBJLdV8HB_jSIA

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              • #8
                Just to clarify I wasn’t suggesting a SuperCub - I was saying I’m glad you came over here from SuperCub.org after we had informed you about the Companion.

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                • #9
                  Originally posted by 500AGL View Post
                  Just to clarify I wasn’t suggesting a SuperCub - I was saying I’m glad you came over here from SuperCub.org after we had informed you about the Companion.
                  LOL, I knew what you meant. And thanks
                  N678C
                  https://eaabuilderslog.org/?blprojec...=7pfctcIVW&add
                  Revo Sunglasses Ambassador
                  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ0...tBJLdV8HB_jSIA

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