After 14 years of flying my second homebuilt, preceded by nine years in my first, I wish I could say that most things that can go wrong already have, but the gods might think me insolent. By now, however, I can at least say with some confidence what has worked and what has not.
Technicalities: What Worked and What Didn’t
Key Takeaways:
- The author learned that while complex features like retractable gear can be rewarding despite build challenges, others such as adjustable-incidence ailerons proved largely useless, and homemade hydraulic systems were a constant source of leaks.
- Significant performance improvements in the second aircraft (Melmoth 2), including better speed and climb for long range, were primarily attributed to increased wingspan rather than wing area, highlighting its critical role in aerodynamic efficiency.
- Ongoing design refinement based on experience led to improved airbrake designs, optimized control forces, and a modified T-tail to address icing issues, though challenges like accurate fuel tracking and cabin accessibility persisted.
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