L-2M vs. 7AC

[SteveR]

I found a really nice L-2M that I'm leaning towards buying, but I also found a 7AC with an AAC paint scheme that I like. I definitely like the L-2M better, but the 7AC is $19.5k vs. $29k. The 7AC also holds 24 gallons of fuel vs. 14 gallons...I intend to install an O-200 so the extra fuel is very nice at times.

I really prefer the L-2M...I've flown both and like the spoilers & history of the L-2M better. I'd like to hear any opinions on the two...

[Guest]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

I have never before heard of a 7AC with 24 gal. fuel.

How is that done? I heard of 13, 18.5, 26.

Maybe I am forgetting something but I wonder is that a normal installation and documented (or am I just not awake yet ).

I would buy the Champ.

Dave R

[Guest]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

Might be the awake thing. I guess a 13 + two 5.5 wing tanks would do it.

I don't recall that in the TCDS, does it have some other approval?

Dave R

[SteveR]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

https://www.barnstormers.com/classified_1188976_7AC+Champ+Light+Sport.html

That is the Champ. Dave, other than the $10k, What makes you favor a Champ over an L-2M?

[PA1195]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

TCDS A-759 Item 116 lists 26 gallons as an optional Kit for the 7A..is that two wing tanks? Might be a nice mod. 24 might be useable fuel. I miss my 7ECA and would own another.

Gary

[M Towsley]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

I liked my L-2B. Fuel not a big issue as I still had the A-65. L-2 should be faster, not that slower flat-bottom wing of the Champ. Plus, the Champ looks like its pregnant, L-2 is sleeker looking and a warbird. That is one reason for the price differential.

[LostnSpace]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

I learned to fly in a 7AC, long, long ago, had a J-3 when friends had an L-2B and L-2M, traded flying in both of them, always liked the L-2M best, it had the activated spoilers, and was just a fun airplane, thanks for the memories, and not to argue with Dave R., just my thoughts, gary

[Guest]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

TCDS A-759 Item 116 lists 26 gallons as an optional Kit for the 7A..is that two wing tanks? Might be a nice mod. 24 might be useable fuel. I miss my 7ECA and would own another.

Gary

Hi Gary,

Your comments just made me remember.

The tanks have 26 gal usable but with an a65 installation CAR3/4 only allows you to use 25 gallons. A placard gets installed telling the pilot that.

For the bigger engines you get to use the entire 26 gal.

Thanks, Dave R

p.s. correct my original value of 24 to the true value of 25

[Guest]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

https://www.barnstormers.com/classif...ght+Sport.html

That is the Champ. Dave, other than the $10k, What makes you favor a Champ over an L-2M?

Looks aside and the $10k diff as well, Marty may be correct about the looks, its just that Champs enjoy a higher level of support.

All the drawings are available, there are many parts available. Just makes it easier. They are much slower, maybe easier for entry, not sure.

How many times do you see folks struggling to get a t-craft drawing and get nothing?

Dave R

[M Towsley]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

Dave,

Very good points. You need to get an airplane that is put together and maintained well. Just like everything else regarding out planes is support, and that is pretty much the group on here. Off the top of my head the Boeing cowl fasteners are made of unobtainium and no one is making any at this time. Sheet metal can be done, perhaps not the cowl, though. Small trim parts, correct throttle knobs, trim knobs, etc., can be hard to find but those again were taken care of by someone on here for my plane. Many things can be made but are not easy without having one to use as an example, like the bungee cord covers. Speaking of that, there are no tools made to change the bungees.

The worse thing about L-2's are the not-even-close to military color schemes owners feel the need to use. Maybe, just maybe, a couple were delivered to Italy during the war. They were utilized as trainers based Stateside, no invasion stripes needed. But, it is a warbird. Airshows, etc., for warbirds welcome L-Birds. Plus you don't see them every day, and can attract a crowd.

[Guest]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

https://www.barnstormers.com/classif...ght+Sport.html

That is the Champ. Dave, other than the $10k, What makes you favor a Champ over an L-2M?

BTW - up until last month I had one Aeronca and one Taylorcraft.

Sold the one that was flying at the time so I could move.

[Nefj40]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

All things being equal, I'd take the L2. That $10k difference though will help put a 0-200 in the champ.

[Mack Dobkins]

Re: L-2M vs. 7AC

I really like my L2