original avid amphibian build manual

[AvidJack 26]

let's see if this will upload- found it while rummaging about my computer..

didn't see it anywhere else on the site.

If it is, let me know, and I'll delete it.

-Jack

AvidAmphibConstructionManual.pdf

[pecks1472 0]

Thanks for sharing Jack...

[Sally 0]

Hi Jack,
I am the proudest owner of an Avid Amphibian, who soon will start a long trip to get my home. 
I am wondering if you might have the Pilot Manual or POS.. would you share with me ?

Thanks
Sally

[AvidJack 26]

I might be able to give you a few pointers, depending on the avid you have.

All of the avids are homebuilts, and as such are fairly unique, meaning mine is different than yours, and pretty much all of the others. Figuring out how to help would be based on the serial number, which would tell me more about the gear release, and the propeller/engine combination.  Heck, with the tail number, I can probably pull the engine combination, maybe even pictures.

I say this, because on build, I added the kitfox leading edge to the wings, as well as covering the upper leading edge with thin ply, to add more of a contoured shape.  This gets rid of some of the dragginess, and shortens my takeoff and landings.  I also have a Hirth 100 hp pushing a three blade warp prop, and in testing, I have *no* problems getting off the water at gross weight. My power-on stalls are also pretty hard to manage, as the power tends to offset the stick. I do have a youtube video of water operations- I watched a lot of them when building mine- had to move the bilge pump outlet upwards, as the original location was underwater (as shown on some of those videos) !  You can search "Granger Lake Splashin" on the utube for my video. Avid catalina for some of the others.

So, let me know what you have, and I can probably help some. If you've never flown a pylon-mounted engine, be aware that adding power tends to push the nose DOWN, which can be exciting during a go-around. I found that doing a lot of water landings made landing on runways a lot simpler, just hold it off as you do skimming the lake, and ease off power.  Mine isn't *as* draggy, but it'll still glide like a brick if you don't push the nose down on power loss/drop. If you're used to side-slipping in a crosswind, you'll risk dragging a wing float- I find it easier to crab, then kick. That's where the skimming practice really helps.

And, ENJOY!

Jack