The Pitts by Muhle Aviation Works

 

 

 

 

 

From 2001 to 2007, Paul built a Pitts S1SS bi-wing, aerobatic, home-built airplane.  The 2007 EAA Grand Champion Plans Built award was presented to Paul for this Pitts.

 

Paul modified the Pitts S1SS plan in a number of respects, including:

  1. Lengthening the fuselage by 2 inches at the tail post and 2 inches at the engine mounts;
  2. Changing the tail profile by making it more rectangular;
  3. Lowering the canopy sides about 4 inches on each side for better visibility;
  4. Reclining the seat five inches back for better G-loads;
  5. Moving the instrument panel toward the rear by 2 ½ inches;
  6. Substituting a Van's RV-3 landing gear;
  7. Clipping the wing tips to square to reduce drag;
  8. Boosting the Titan 180 HP engine with variable speed prop, to 200 HP by increasing the compression to 9 ½ to 1; and
  9. Redesigning the cowling manufactured by Paul to accommodate the engine.

As a result of the modifications and the selection of power plant, the aircraft is about 13 ½ inches longer than the plans provide for. The Pitts performs and feels better than expected, with a roll rate of 360º per second, cruise speed of 187 miles per hour, and climb rate of 3000 feet per minute. 

 

Besides taking care of business, Paul’s present project is a Van’s RV-7 with a glass cockpit and auto pilot.  The RV-7 will be powered by a 180 HP engine with a constant speed prop.

 

The high level of quality incorporated in Paul’s work comes from applying the saying "practice makes perfect."