For those with or are knowledgeable about the RV8, would you recommend batteries (2xPC680) in the rear or on the firewall assuming renesis engine with a wood prop. 

 

Hi Greg,

 

I've done it both ways with O-360's and heavy props, and both have advantages.  The last RV-8 had an O-360 with C/S prop, and I put one PC680 on the firewall.  That puts the plane at the forward CG limit when solo, which is great for carrying passengers and baggage, but not so great for fun solo flying.  

 

There's a lot of room for variation in installation weight, but a Renesis with a wood prop certainly could (should) come out lighter than an O-360 with C/S prop.  As long as you beat the weight by enough to allow for a second battery, then you can certainly put the batteries on the firewall.  Some people are putting batteries in the bottom of the front baggage extension, just to get them off the firewall, and out of the heat, so that's another option. 

 

Before you close up the floors, it might be wise to leave a wire run available for a rear battery, just in case.

 

Cheers,

Rusty