Hi Dave,
Thanks for the reply. It sounds a bit different to SA, but not impossible. Our missions base is close to FLMG. I plan to do quite a bit of flying to the west of Mongu. I tried to contact someone at Zambia DCA, but no one responded yet. I need to start getting my ducks in a row to arrange permits etc. I also need to find out about taking my aircraft in, long term. We only plan to go in June next year, but I want to start planning now already. Have a look at our missions website if you want - www.zam.co.za
Cheers
Wilfrid (Benjamin is my second name)

Hi Dave. I'm new to this site.I live in Cape Town, RSA, fly a CH701, and plan to move to Mongu, Zambia next year, to live at a missions base there. Would like to ask you some questions regarding flying in Zambia. I sent you a friend request as well. Regard, Wilfrid

Thanks Dave, I'll take a look.

Engine Questions:

We are keen on installing an IO-390-X. Searching the web I see your CH801 has a IO-390-X, is this correct?
Yes. The IO-390 makes more heat so cooling takes a bit more consideration.

If so, why did you choose it over the IO-360?
More power.

What are your fuel consumption figures like?
10.5 to 12 gph

Did you use the standard FWF kit for the IO-360 from Zenith or did you have to do major modifications to get it to fit?
Engine mount fit fine. Modified cowl.

Prop Questions:

Why did you go for the constant speed prop?
Better performance.

Does the constant speed prop increase your cruise performance and fuel consumption at all (over that of standard fixed pitch) or did you get it mainly for short take off and landing benefits (variable pitch / reversible governor)?
Better all around performance. I got rev. gov. because I was going to put it on floats.

We were thinking that fixed pitch would be less maintenance and less weight but are seriously considering going with a constant speed.
You are of course correct on both counts. Everything is a trade-off. If reliability, weight, and cost are more important than a small increase in performance go fixed. If max performance is primary, consider constant speed.

Did you consider the electric constant speed propeller?
No.

I hope that helps.

Best of luck with your project! Christopher

Hi David,
I have an MT 3-blade prop with a reversible governor on my 801.
Please let me know if you have any specific questions.
Kind regards,
Christopher

Hi David, I got a notification that you answered my previous comment but I can't find your answer. anyway, I was in Southern Province, Zambia but just arrived back home in TZ today.

Hi David, I am building a CH 801 in Tanzania and i've run into a difficulty. I am traveling in Zambia starting tomorrow but have no idea where you are located. If you aren't too far from the beaten track, I'd like to look at your plane. Let me know where you are (plane is) and if you'r willing to let me look at it. Thanks. Jason

Hi dave.
Give me a call urgently please. Been trying to phone since last week thursday.Has the vibration been found? Also the tel number for andy in Lusaka please as I have found a CH701 for him thats immediately availbale for sale.
Otherwise, how are things?
regards
Philip