Forums, Davis DA-2

Jim Holmgren(@jim-holmgren)

3 Posts

December 30, 2018, 5:04 pm

Hi!

I have thought about constructing my first homebuilt aircraft for about 6 months now and want to start construction very soon!

But I have a hard time to decide which design to start with...

I want something with good crosscountry performance on good fuel economy with mild rough field capability (grass/dirt/snow/maybe even floats!?), 2 seater and simple construction.

I also have a silly dream of some day crossing the Atlantic with a single prop...

The DA-2 Seems to be a very nice design and as a solo piloted aircraft with 50gal? ferry tank, it would have quite long range for different expeditions!

However it as a bit slow with a Cruise speed of 110mph and a alleged max speed of 120mph, which does not seem to be right?

I would like a cruise speed of least 150mph. Is this possible? What is the V_NEspeed of DA-2? Is it possible to reinforce control surfaces to prevent flutter and rise the V_NE?

What loads is it stressed to? normal category = +6/-3?

Would you recommend this aircraft for a beginner builder and pilot?

Sincerely Jim H.

Rex Winfrey(@bhcisherenow)

62 Posts

December 30, 2018, 7:31 pm

Hi Jim,

Thanks for your interest in the Davis DA-2. The DA-2 is a very simple to build and fly aircraft for a first time builder and low time pilot.

The DA-2 is should perform fine on groomed grass and dirt (be careful of potholes). I would highly discourage tying to put floats on it.

There have been some examples cruising as fast as 145 mph with an O-200 and no reported problems. Leeon Davis never published a Vne or max stress loading for the design so I would keep the stress within the Normal category.

Crossing the Atlantic in any single engine aircraft is a very gutsy endeavor and if you do try it someday, I wish you best best of luck. I'm sure it would be a very rewarding experience.

If you would like to talk about the design, feel free to give me a call 562-773-7285. Not too early, I work at night Pacific Time.

Happy New Year!!!

Bryan

Jim Holmgren(@jim-holmgren)

3 PostsTopic Author

December 31, 2018, 3:10 am

That sounds great!

I really like this design, reminds me a bit like a small Cherokee and from Budd Davisson report it handle like one too!

Anyway I did ordered a set of plans for it!

Is the any other documents that would be helpful in the build?

Or any other suggestions on good literature?

Happy new year!

/Jim H.

Rex Winfrey(@bhcisherenow)

62 Posts

December 31, 2018, 12:56 pm

I have found the books by Tony Bingelis to be excellent for any level of builder. There is also a Yahoo group for the Da-2 that had been active for nearly 20 years. The people in this forum are a treasure of knowledge.

I will get your plans sent out by the end of the week.

Thanks, and have a safe and Happy New Year,

Bryan

Jim Holmgren(@jim-holmgren)

3 PostsTopic Author

January 5, 2019, 7:53 am

Thanks!

I will check out Tony Bingelis books.

/Jim H.

norm_parmley(@norm_parmley)

4 Posts

August 13, 2019, 12:10 pm

Jim,

Have you found the Tony Bingelis' books? If so where did you find them?

Regards,

Norm P.

bradpayne(@bradpayne)

2 Posts

August 20, 2019, 8:45 pm

Norm,

The Tony Bingelis books are available from the EAA Store or from Aircraft Spruce. https://www.aircraftspruce.com/menus/bv/books_bingelis.html

I have access to the entire set of 4 and its a great reference.

-Brad

norm_parmley(@norm_parmley)

4 Posts

August 20, 2019, 9:48 pm

Brad,

Thanks for the link.

Norm

Is the DA-2 Design right for me?