Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2016 7:46 pm
by MichaelFarley56
Greetings,
I was able to visit Sun N Fun today and spent some time looking over the new Waiex B prototype. First, I have to say this airplane is beautiful! He factory has done an outstanding job on the fit and finish of the airplane and it was attracting a lot of attention today. The traditionally “difficult” areas, such as the cowling and canopy, are perfect! The firewall forward area, including baffles, wiring, etc. are all extremely well done. The airplane hasn’t flown yet but is ready; in fact, after talking with Joe Norris, he said the paperwork has been submitted and the airworthiness inspection will happen shortly after the team returns to Oshkosh.
I will attach a bunch of pictures to the post: Photobucket doesn’t offer the highest resolution but hopefully everyone will get the idea.
Thanks everyone!
Turbo AeroVee with factory recommended Sensenich cruise prop
Beautiful panel of MGL goodies! Electric flap switch on the left, and heated seat selector on the right!
Left side throttle and brake handle
New seat geometry to offer more headroom and shoulder room. Also note the pre made canopy frame.
The new cowling looks beautiful! The looks of the airplane really are improved.
This will look familiar to any turbo AeroVee person. Note the lack of a cooling exit on the bottom
Cowling exit areas are side scoops
The engine mounts will install with new mounting point locations in each corner. No more trimming those bottom supports!
Congratulations to the factory for a beautiful airplane!! I can’t wait to see it fly!!
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2016 8:48 pm
by fastj22
Did Sonex fly the B to the show or trailer it? Not that it really makes a difference.
Do like the looks. Many of the “enhancements” we have asked for.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2016 8:52 pm
by ldmill
The number of changes is very impressive. I see elements of many of our suggestions and modifications over the years - congrats to Sonex for taking this to heart!! I gotta admit - I’m rather tempted to build another one!
Lorin Miller
N81yx
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2016 8:59 pm
by MichaelFarley56
fastj22 wrote:Did Sonex fly the B to the show or trailer it?
They trailed both the B model and the gray SubSonex. The Waiex is ready for inspection but has not yet received the Airworthiness Certificate. First flight should happen soon.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2016 9:01 pm
by MichaelFarley56
ldmill wrote:The number of changes is very impressive. I see elements of many of our suggestions and modifications over the years - congrats to Sonex for taking this to heart!! I gotta admit - I’m rather tempted to build another one!
Lorin Miller
N81yx
You’re right Lorin! I agree. They are even adding a second “notch” to the canopy lock slide for a taxi position. It looks great!
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2016 9:02 pm
by ihab
Thank you so much for the pictures!
MichaelFarley56 wrote:Beautiful panel of MGL goodies! Electric flap switch on the left, and heated seat selector on the right!
Wow, “real airplane” 
panel space!
MichaelFarley56 wrote:The new cowling looks beautiful! The looks of the airplane really are improved.
It looks like there’s lots of room in the engine compartment too, now, with lots of easy maintenance-friendly access.
MichaelFarley56 wrote:The engine mounts will install with new mounting point locations in each corner.
I also like the way the engine mount is now more “aircraft standard” with standard bolts. Looks just like a Cessna; will not scare your A&P.
Wow, what a super nice airplane…!
Ihab
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2016 9:13 pm
by John Usher
Thanks Michael for posting the pics! I see they used a single stick instead of the Y stick as was first advertised. I like the single stick better. Did they tell you the reason for the side cowling exits?
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2016 9:34 pm
by MichaelFarley56
John Usher wrote:Did they tell you the reason for the side cowling exits?
Im not quite sure why they’ve decided to switch to the side exits. It will be a neat test to see how effective they are!
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2016 10:53 pm
by mike20sm
My guess is better cooling during climbs?
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Fri Apr 08, 2016 8:26 am
by DCASonex
Just curious, but did anyone happen to note what sort of electric flap operator Sonex is using in the new B model and how it was installed ?
David A.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Fri Apr 08, 2016 9:33 am
by fastj22
Side cowl exits just look cooler. Not that they are much cooler.
Thanks folks, I’ll be here all week, try the veal.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Fri Apr 08, 2016 10:08 am
by MichaelFarley56
David, the new flap actuator is behind the seat assembly, probably close to or right behind the rear spar carry through assembly. That was actually one of the weight saving measures when the flap torque tube and actuator rods that ran through the spars were removed.
I can’t help but wonder if the factory will develop a retrofit kit to add electric flaps for us legacy owners! I’d be in for that!
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Fri Apr 08, 2016 10:16 am
by Onex107
I added the second notch to the canopy slide using the “aluminum solder” sold in the fly market by the guy soldering beer cans. They are made from a piece of angle. Two years and still working.
http://s16.postimg.org/rmg9hac5h/IMG_2388.jpg/img
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Sat Apr 09, 2016 7:56 pm
by Ercoupechris
I stopped by the booth many times and it sounds like Sonex has been asked by many about offering a “B” model upgrade for “under construction” existing models and others. Not sure what it will cost but they were kind enough to mention what NOT to do with the wings and other components to accept the possibility of the upgrade. I would suggest that anyone who is interested in this possible upgrade path contact Mark and let him know. Here is hoping that they will offer the upgrade kit. Because of the upgrade potential and the improvement I’ve learned about the Cammit engine, I will probably be going that route.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Sun Apr 10, 2016 10:15 am
by DCASonex
Michael,
Thanks for the info on the B model flap actuator. When contemplating mine considered moving actuator to aft side of main spar to make handle easier to reach and eliminating push rod through main spar, but sounds like they have eliminated the linkage entirely and tie the two flaps together much like the two elevators on the standard tail. Assume from that behind the seat location that there is no manual override capability. (Nor does mine.)
David A.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Mon Apr 11, 2016 10:29 am
by WaiexN143NM
Hi all,
Michael F. Thanks for posting the pics. Plane sure looks nice. I’ be in for a model “B” upgrade kit for our waiex 183. Mark Schaible make it happen!
WaiexN143NM
Michael
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Mon Apr 11, 2016 12:12 pm
by N111YX
I’d like to add that there were more Waiex’s than Sonex’s in Lakeland (the “B” model kept us one up).
Pretty good showing for the 10%'ers.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Mon Apr 11, 2016 3:55 pm
by NWade
WaiexN143NM wrote:I’ be in for a model “B” upgrade kit for our waiex 183. Mark Schaible make it happen!
I’m in the same boat - just finished the aft fuselage and haven’t yet started on the forward section. If I could have a “B” model by making some minor turtledeck changes, wing root-rib changes (& re-trimming of the skin), and a different set of parts of the forward fuse I would buy that upgrade kit in a heartbeat!
I’m not holding my breath; but my build is gonna be on hold for the next 5 months anyways (summer soaring season), so we’ll see what Sonex is offering come September [please please please please please please…]
–Noel
Sonex #1339
TD, Center-stick, Acro-Ailerons, Flush pulled rivets, AeroVee Turbo
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Mon Apr 11, 2016 8:26 pm
by Ercoupechris
If you are interested in the “B” model conversion you should let the factory know. It is my understanding that they weren’t even considering it before Sun N Fun but had a possible change of heart after all of the requests received there. I am sure they now see it as a possible revenue stream from customers who have already spent money with them and like any business, they would like more of it. Its a Win Win for the factory and for us interested but they need to know of the demand. I already sent an email begging them to take my money
The improvements are vast and the B model is much more elegant and refined now.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Tue Apr 12, 2016 10:21 am
by sonex1678
I also saw the B-Model at Sun-N-Fun and inquired about a mod kit for those of us still working on the A-Models to incorporate the changes. As previously noted, it sounds like a distinct possibility, and as suggested by others on the forum, I just sent Sonex an email to remind them of my interest. In the mean time, I’m holding off on working on any more affected areas of the fuselage, and making sure some funds are available if the mod kit comes to fruition–I think the mods would be great, especially for a larger guy like me 
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Tue Apr 12, 2016 12:46 pm
by Rick524
I emailed tech support yesterday asking if a ‘B’ conversion would be available. Kerry replied this morning
saying there would be, with no firm date but hoping for mid to late summer. The mod
will only be available as a kit.
Rick
Sonex 524
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Tue Apr 12, 2016 2:12 pm
by samiam
Did Kerry specify if there is anything that “A” model builders should NOT do at this time, especially on the wing kit?
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Tue Apr 12, 2016 2:47 pm
by Ercoupechris
This is certainly not official but I was told NOT to drill holes in he main spar for the Root Ribs as they get relocated. The skins will have to be cut down for the widened forward fuselage. Also the Cross tie box is different as well as the formers at the bend line. Was told that we might be able to keep the original formers and crosstie box if desired. This is all speculation and based solely on conversations with various Sonex folks at Sun N Fun
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Tue Apr 12, 2016 3:22 pm
by NWade
Did anyone get a chance to see how the wing spar attachments work in the “B” model? Any photos?
I’m wondering if the spar roots are different, given the wider fuselage. Its the one thing that might be a real show-stopper for those of us with an “A” model already in the works…
Thanks,
–Noel
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Tue Apr 12, 2016 4:14 pm
by Ercoupechris
Spar and tunnel appear the same but the holes through the side panels for the spars change because the forward fuselage angle changes
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Tue Apr 12, 2016 7:06 pm
by fastj22
If the spar bolts are located in the same spots, the B model will be a breeze to install them in the plane. The A model is a real pain to up drill them as they are so close to the sides.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Wed Apr 13, 2016 5:57 pm
by Corby202
Looking at the pictures Mike Farley posted a couple of things caught my eye. The forward visibility looks like it might have been reduced because of the frame around the windscreen and the repositioning of the fuel filler. I also wonder if the windscreen is still polycarbonate, now that it is more likely to get fuel splashed onto it.
Each to their own but I think the vertical split cowl was a good feature of the Sonex, its a shame they have gone away from it.
Nice looking plane though.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Wed Apr 13, 2016 9:59 pm
by NWade
Corby202 wrote:I also wonder if the windscreen is still polycarbonate, now that it is more likely to get fuel splashed onto it.
Well I liked the change in the split of the cowl for the “A” model; but the Onex-like fuel filler location is definitely the one element of the “B” Model that I don’t like. It just seems like a way to get lots of fumes and fuel droplets in the cockpit/behind the instrument panel. :?
–Noel
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Wed Apr 13, 2016 11:13 pm
by samiam
Corby202 wrote:Each to their own but I think the vertical split cowl was a good feature of the Sonex, its a shame they have gone away from it.
Nice looking plane though.
Out of curiosity, why did you prefer the vertical split cowl? The reviews I have seen seem to uniformly say that the horizontally split cowl is far easier to work with.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Wed Apr 13, 2016 11:32 pm
by Corby202
A couple of reasons Mike. Main one, I found it so much easier to get a really good fit onto my Jabiru supplied plenum chambers with one half of the cowl on at a time whilst building and can retain that good fit because the cowl is not split accross that plenum. Looks better not having a join along the side (imho), they are easy and quick to remove.
Downside would be having to get under the plane to remove three pins.
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2016 4:56 pm
by markschaible
Hello All,
For more information about B-Model conversions, please see our posting and participate in our poll at: http://www.sonexbuilders.net/viewtopic.php?f=58&t=2870
Best Regards to all!
Mark Schaible
General Manager
Sonex Aircraft, LLC
phone: 920-231-8297
fax: 920-426-8333
http://www.SonexAircraft.com
http://www.AeroConversions.com
Sales Info: sales@sonexaircraft.com
Orders: orders@sonexaircraft.com
Accounting: accounting@sonexaircraft.com
Tech Support: tech@sonexaircraft.com
Build a Sonex Aircraft in Your School!
Check out the Sonex Education Initiative: http://education.sonexaircraft.com/
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2016 5:03 pm
by NWade
Mark -
Can’t seem to vote on the poll. Maybe because its in a locked/admin-only thread? 
Thanks a bunch!
–Noel
Sonex #1339
TD, Acro-aileron, Center-stick, Flush-pulled-rivets, Turbo AeroVee… “B” Model Conversion?
Re: Sun N Fun 2016 Waiex B Pics
Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2016 5:20 pm
by markschaible
I have re-posted to a New Topic under Sonex-B / Waiex-B at: http://www.sonexbuilders.net/viewtopic.php?f=58&t=2870
I’ve also edited my original post in this thread to have the correct link. Sorry for the hiccup!
Regards,
-Mark
Mark Schaible
General Manager
Sonex Aircraft, LLC
phone: 920-231-8297
fax: 920-426-8333
http://www.SonexAircraft.com
http://www.AeroConversions.com
Sales Info: sales@sonexaircraft.com
Orders: orders@sonexaircraft.com
Accounting: accounting@sonexaircraft.com
Tech Support: tech@sonexaircraft.com
Build a Sonex Aircraft in Your School!
Check out the Sonex Education Initiative: http://education.sonexaircraft.com/