| Wingspan: | 26' 1" / 7,95 m |
Length: |
16' 9" / 5,10 m |
| Height: | 7' 11" / 2.41 m |
| Empty Weight: | 1040 lbs. / 472.7 kg |
| Max flight weight: | 1800 lbs. / 818.2 kg |
| Engine: |
Lycoming O-320-E2D 160 HP |
| Fuel Capacity: | 48 U.S. gal / 181.7 l |
Max. Speed: |
190 KIAS / 359 kph |
Avg Cruise Speed: |
165 KTAS / 306 kph |
Min. Airspeed: |
58 KIAS / 107 kph |
Max. ROC at S.L.: |
1,400 fpm / 426 m/min |
G-limts: |
+5.0 / - 2.0 |
| Range at 160 KTAS: | 884 nm / 1637 km |
Range at 120 KIAS: |
1129 nm / 2091 km |
The Long-EZ design and construction
The Long-EZ was one of the earlier designs from the mind of Burt Rutan. He had formed RAF (Rutan Aircraft Factory) in Mojave, CA to sell plans for his earlier designs, including the VariViggen, VariEZE, and Defiant, as well as to help support the Voyager around the world flight project.
The Long-EZ was designed for day, VFR, straight and level flight. It is highly efficient and capable of long-distances with its on-board fuel supply of approximately 48 gallons. N13YV is equipped for night, IFR flight and is capable of limited aerobatics.
The Long-EZ is what is called a “`-built” plane. This means it is not a kit – you purchased a set of plans, then fabricated most or all of the components yourself.
Rutan’s plans were written in the same style as the dress patterns that you used to be able to purchase at the supermarket. Since these were all created prior to widespread use of desktop computers, the illustrations were hand-drawn and the text was done on a typewriter.
Getting the structure built and eventually ready to paint is a time consuming series of steps. Ultimately, it results in countless hours sanding and filling the surface to prepare it for paint.
Here I am sanding the belly at 2 AM in February 1996 during the major rebuild and re-finish
N13YV Performance
N13YV Dimensions
In the case of the Long-EZ, this means you purchased large blocks or sheets of foam, then shaped them in a variety of different ways, before covering them with fiberglass. The result is a lightweight, strong, and smooth surface.
"The test of the machine is the satisfaction it gives you. There isn't any other test. If the machine produces tranquility, it's right. If it disturbs you, it's wrong until either the machine or your mind is changed."
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
1974