New Zenith Cruiser with 2,850 Corvair.

Builders

Peter Eiberger has just recently started flying his Zenith 750 cruiser. I spoke with him today, and he shared these photos and a link to his you tube channel. The project was 21 months taking the workshop class at the factory to having it signed off for flight. Keep in mind Peter has never built a plane before, is in his 30’s, married, and works full time, and yes he built the engine himself in that time span also.

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His plane is powered with a 2,850cc Corvair, 112hp, with a Rotec 34mm MK II carb. The fuel system is a simple gravity feed. It is fitted with a Sensenich 64 x 35 prop, with is a standard prop on a Stop, and a very strong climb prop on a cruiser. Instrumentation is by Grand Rapids, with an auto pilot.

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I’m glad to have all types of builders, but I have to say that Peter’s easy going manner made working with him a pleasure. He had setbacks like anyone else, but he never go discouraged, he just wanted to know the best way to get back on track and keep going. My golden rule of Homebuilding is “Persistence Pays”, and this combined with a very positive attitude adds up to a really good build.

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A good side view of Peter’s plane. It has the option for large tires, 21′ on the mains. As of today, the plane has 6 hours on it. The flight testing has been completely uneventful , and Peter is going to keep it that way by using a combination of the flight test program in my MOP manual and the one published by the EAA. More info to come as phase one continues.

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Head on view, showing the Corvair is only 28″ wide, The cowl I sell was specifically designed for Zenith airframes.

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A clean, simple installation.

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The sweet sound of a smooth Corvair, Even people who are not fans of auto conversions have to admit the love the sound of this engine.

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Enjoy this for a few minutes, and head back to your shop and make some progress on your own bird. Let this top off your motivation tank.

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WW

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