Excellent info, I'm getting a 'server error try again later' from the link
so
this really helps. I only want a limited IFR ability, more just in case and
for longer cross country trips. As this is my retirement buy I don't mind
putting the money in, I don't expect to be getting rid of it and not getting
my money back is not a concern. Thanks again for your help!

Brendan


"Henry and Debbie McFarland" wrote in message
ink.net...
"Brendan Grace" wrote in message
...
Thanks !

Your welcome. The Luscombe is a great airplane! I sold a C-172 to buy
mine
and have never regretted it. It's much more fun to fly. I have a new
C-85-12
in mine with the O-200 STC. Lester (my baby) climbs at 1000 fpm, cruises
at
110 mph and stalls at 48 mph. He holds 27.5 gallons of fuel and burns 5.0
gph in cruise and about 5.5 gph around the pattern.

Contrary to reputation, any competent pilot can handle this airplane. It
will handle the same crosswind component as my old C-172 did. I know, I've
done it. In fact, I think it handles wind better. For me the controls, are
lighter and more responsive. You will have to learn to think with your
feet.
I get amused when I read the posts on this newsgroup about calculating
speeds and such on final. You will not have time to calculate squat with
this bird. If you think, it's too late. Fly the airplane with your butt,
remember that "straight is the way" and keep those feet working,
especially
as the landing roll slows. Do that, and all will be well with thee.

There are IFR 8Es out there. I don't believe they are a true IMC platform,
however folks do fly light IFR in them. Make sure the model you are
considering has a generator large enough to carry the loads at lower rmps.
There are some alternator conversions out there, but they are few and far
between since there is no STC at present.

There is a glorious 8E for sell at RYY (McCollum Field, Kennesaw, Ga.)
that
may have all that you desire if the one you're considering doesn't work
out.
As to insurance, I've never had a problem, but my husband has owned his 8A
for 30 years. Adding me to his insurance was not a big deal, and by the
time
I bought my own, I had nearly 100 hours in type. The best rates for these
airplanes is through membership with EAA's Vintage section. They offer
deals
through AUA for our airplanes. Our rates are very reasonable, but again I
have over 1000 hours now. As my time grew in the airplane, my rates have
dropped.

Good luck and have fun,
Deb

--
1946 Luscombe 8A (His)
1948 Luscombe 8E (Hers)
1954 Cessna 195B, restoring (Ours)
Jasper, Ga. (JZP)