When I first researched IV-P, in the early 90's,
the gross weight according to the factory was 3000 lb, then a few years
later, listed at 3200 lb. This was the weight we used when we had our
plane's final inspection. I now note on the Lancair Website that the
maximum gross for the IV-P is listed as 3550 lb. It is also my
understanding in talking to other builders that it is possible for a builder to
certify a higher gross simply by flying the plane with greater weights and
re-doing stall speeds. My questions to ask the opinion of the
LML group are as follows:
1. Does the 3550 lb gross weight apply to all
IV-P's or just to the turbine IV-P's?
2. Have any builders already increased the
maximum gross of their plane, and if so, what procedures did you follow to make
it legal?
3. I have heard builders express confidence
that the IV-PT can handle a max weight of 4000 pounds, has anyone flown
their plane with that much weight?
Gerry Leinweber, C-GLFP
150+ hours and climbing
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