dirtstrip wrote:Emory,
I had the early CH701, by early I mean it was rated for 960 lbs gross and the standard engine was the Rotax 582. Later, when Zenith adopted the 912 for their engine of choice, the weight limit was increased to 1100 to accommodate it. I think the design change was only a reinforced wing with some extra ribs. What you need to ask is if this is the 960 gross model. The year is stated as 97 but that is not the kit production year but the manufacture year, meaning the year it was completed by the builder. If it is a 960 gross model with a 912 added then you are up against a tighter useful load. My 701 was 520 empty with the 582 (110 lbs installed) and large tires. It held 15 gallons of fuel. The 1100 lb models with a 912 usually had two 10 gallon wing tanks for 20 gal.

Here is how mine looked: 960 lb - 520 = 440 and with 15 gal. gas = 90 lb dropping it to 350 lbs. To use the 960 gross model and repower with the 912 (140 lbs installed) then you lose an additional 30 lbs and now can haul only 300. Obviously this would not work for everyone to carry a passsenger. But could be ok for the pilot and some gear. It is also why I repowered with the Simonini in my older 701, it was the same weight as the 582 but 92 hp. The plane with the extra weight of the 912 will fly just fine and will handle a little over gross fine too but beware that you are tight going into the deal and be sure to know it before signing the dotted line.

If it is the 1100 lb gross model then it would be great, but if it is not then it explains why the plane has been for sale so long.

Also mine made 75- 80 on a good day and flew a little nose high. With a heavier engine I would expect it to lower the nose some and add to the cruise. Small changes are big on this plane.

All that lift comes at a price. Drag. My friends 701 burns 4 to 5 GPH at cruise.