Panther Sport Aircraft Forums

I wonder if, in the future, it could be an option that might save the builder a few bucks if they don't intend to build that in. I just hate to waste the parts.

Actually it seems about 75% of the builders have installed , or are planning to install they wing folding parts.
I know Brent Mayo and Paul Salter have them installed. it saves about 8 lbs if you leave all the stuff out.
I will also say that at least 80% of "cougar " inquires say they want folding wings so to many it is important . The good news is you can build it either way !

Bob, I built mine with the folding wing feature for two reasons:
1. While I have a full hangar and do not plan to fold them on a regular basis, it may be the deciding factor for whomever buys it from me down the road. It seems like an added value feature with very little down-side.
2. I found it to be a very useful feature for working on or inspecting the aileron joiners and the inboard area of the wings. It is also very handy when working on the bottom side of the wing. The wing can be pulled fully out, turned upside-down and the outboard end set on a saw horse, for very easy access. No need to lay on a creeper and work upside down.

Hope this helps.

For me, I have a hangar and do not want to do the wing thing every time I want to fly. Weight, for me, was also a small consideration. However, when I got to the stage of adjusting the wings so they would just fall into place, that did not happen after many hours. I feel lucky to just get them in place so the pin ( bolt for me ) will go in. Then add all the complexity and time to install all that stuff. I would much rather spend my time on things I really want in my plane.

Has anyone other than Dan built with folding wings to date? I have not read either way.

Why leave off the folding wings? I think it's a *huge* plus. Is there a significant weight savings?

"I have seen that that most people are building their Panthers without folding wing"

Dan Heath - Yes, it is a public airport. However, the Corvair college is a closed event. Others have registered and paid for their attendance/cost coverage and for anyone to show up because it is "a public airport and they don't have to pay" is being rude and disrespectful to everyone else there. Oshkosh is a public airport, but during the week of airventure you don't get to just fly in and hang out with friends. P.F. Beck is a perfect gentleman and would never turn anyone away. All the more reason to show the respect due.

Someone suggested that I contact WW or PF Beck about coming just to look around and meet up with friends, since the sign up was closed. I contacted PF, since I know him, and he was very welcoming to me. However, he said that I will have to pay for all my food and drink, as I would insist on doing, and will not interfere with the CC going on inside the hangar. It is at KBNL and is a public airport.

Please note that the Barnwell, SC Corvair College is full. The signup was closed about a month ago.

Ok. Thanks

FYI,

I made a mistake on my previous post. The Corvair College at Barnwell starts March 10.

Paul