Greetings All, I have been a member of this list and the "fly in" list for a short time, and have thoroughly enjoyed reading the posts on both. You folks have an amazing amount of knowlege and experience.
I am seriously considering becoming an Ercoupe owner for several reasons, and look forward to joining in the discussions as a real "couper". I do have a few questions I haven't been able to answer by reference to the list archives. If someone would kindly spare the time to answer, I'd really appreciate it. 1. I am an experienced pilot and a basic OK home mechanic, but have not the time, qualifications, nor skills to be a primary mechanic for an aircraft. I would like very much to own a 'coupe, but could not justify spending more time working on it than flying in it. From the lists, it seems that much time is spent in searching for parts, looking for answers, and waiting for the bird to come out of repair. I am fully aware the this is an older "classic" aircraft, which is one of the reasons I like it, and as such requires more TLC and patience than a more modern type. That I am willing to do, over and above all the usual annual/overhaul/inspection/normal wear-and-tear stuff, within reason. If I put forth the effort to buy a 'coupe in good safe and solid condition to begin with, do I have a reasonable expectation of flying it more than worrying about it and fixing it? 2. Regarding rudder pedals: Personally, I can go either way, but would prefer the original design. If I find a good 'coupe modified with rudder pedals, is some sort of aileron/rudder interconnect still active, or would that have been disabled at time of modification? And if so, could it be re-connected? I spent quite a few hours flying a type that had aileron/rudder interconnect via a spring/bungee cord arrangement. Normally, not much rudder needed, but if a slip was required, just over-ride the bungee cord and you've got full rudder authority. Anything like that in the rudder pedal 'coupes? 3. I notice references to "bubble" or "bbl" windshields occasionally. Is there some sort of advantage one over the other? I can't tell just by looking at the pictures. Thanks in advance for taking the time to answer and help. My wife is also excited about this idea (YEAAAA!!!!)and we will be at Sun and Fun for the first couple of days. Hope to see some of you there. Chip Dockery
