The discussion and opinions on this issue have been well worth the initial
posting.  I am an Optometrist by profession, and an amateur plane builder,
not an aeronautical engineer, so I really appreciate the comments posted
from builders with various backgrounds.

The interesting fact I first brought up, that the Lancair web-site now lists
the gross Max. Weight as 3550 pounds for the IV or IV-P (and that is with
the TSIO-550 engine).  What facts does anyone who reads this list know of
why this change was made, what tests have been done regarding the various
issues raised in subsequent posts (gear collapse, Va, Vno, etc) and based on
these facts, pilots can manage their own risk much better than without these
facts.  I think most of us fully understand the benefits of having a higher
useful payload, while also now having a better idea of the risks taken when
stressing the airframe or landing gear just a little too much.

So if someone from the factory could comment, or someone who has spoken in
person to people at the factory on this topic, I would sure ask that add
those facts and opinions to this discussion thread.

Gerry Leinweber
C-GLFP  IV-P