Advice on possible KF-2 purchase

[HoosierSMW 7]

I have an opportunity to buy a flying KF-2 and am interested in opinions on the purchase. I know the builder and it was a quality build. the flaperon mounts were modified with the reinforcing angles during the build. As far as I know it has always been hangered. It was finished in 92 and I assume most of the do-able modifications available to that date were done. It has a gray head 582 and dual wing tanks. It is a good performer but has a fairly high empty weight (about 510lbs). Seems to me I had read about 430lbs was typical. It is being offered to me at a very attractive price. Most of my flying is boring holes in the sky solo but do like to take passengers along when I have the opportunity. I am currently working (very slowly) on a C model Avid. Opinions on the KF-2? Any comparisons good or bad to the Avid C? Any input would be appreciated.

[akflyer 1428]

510 isnt too bad.  It has a lot more wing than the avid so it will have a little better performance in everything but cruise.  I have lots of time in a mod 2 and I think they fly really nice, just gotta keep your feet awake and lead turns and roll with rudder.  How many hours are on the engine?  What gear box?

[HoosierSMW 7]

I'm not sure about hours or gearbox. Will ask tomorrow when I talk to the owner and post that info. Do you have time in a 3 or 4 to compare. I would love to have a 4 but too much for my budget for now. I still intend to finish the Avid. Hope to get at it full time after I retire (too close for comfort).

[1avidflyer 2006]

My Kitfox 4 needs less rudder in the turns, and it's stiffer on the controls, mainly in roll.  Probably because of the larger flaperons than earlier models.  I had a Kitfox one for a while, and have tons of Avid time, and the early Kitfox and Avid are more alike to fly than the Kitfox 4.  The Kitfox 2 should be a fun plane, and like Leni says, wake your feet up before takeoff.  Great fun tho.  JImChuk

[HoosierSMW 7]

Talked to the current owner today (good friend). The engine has about 210 hours on it. Runs great. Did not know the gearbox model. I have attached a close up of the nose if this gives enough information to determine which one it is. Beautiful airplane and special to me.

[1avidflyer 2006]

Looks like B gearbox to me.  That 3 blade Warp drive prop may be a bit heavy for a B gearbox though.  JImChuk

[HoosierSMW 7]

What prop would you suggest for this model?

[1avidflyer 2006]

I'm a real fan of the Ukranian props.  I have two NR props on my Kitfoxes.  This guy sells the same props as NR and seems to answer emails much quicker.  I also think a two blade prop performs better than a 3 blade but is not as smooth.   I would email him and ask what he thinks.  Tell him your engine and gearbox plus it's for a Kitfox.  (tractor application)  Propellers and fans for everyone - Home (mozello.com)

[HoosierSMW 7]

Went up with the owner today. Takes off way before I'm ready and climbs like a homesick angel. Of course, I'm a 150 tail dragger type and not used to this light of a craft.  Love the airplane but definitely something I need to get a good checkout in. The engine shakes a fair amount under 2,700 - 3,000 rpm but smooths out above that. Does have an occasional hickup at cruise. Is there anything unusual about that? Seems like that typical for a 582 but would like more information from those who know? One of the wing tanks seeps fuel, (they have been trying to track down the source) that runs back to the trailing edge. It is slow enough that is evaporates before it can drip but I would like to know if it could damage the wood ribs or fabric. He is pre-mixing instead of using the oil injection. Any information or comments would be appreciated. I've attached better closeups of the reduction drive.