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The Merlin was originally a Canadian design which was introduced
in 1990, it is now being produced by Blue Yonder Aviation. It features a welded 4130 chromoly
steel fuselage, and tail assembly.
The wings use aluminum D Cell construction, with styrofoam
ribs. Covering is standard aircraft covering materials.
The Merlin is a taildragger, in a
tractor configuration, with side by side seating. Controls are standard stick and rudder
with a center stick, separate option sticks are now available.
Building times are an
honest 350 to 400 hours. The company indicates testing has been done to +4 and -2Gs.
Aerocomp
800 Kemp St.
Merritt Island, FL 32952 USA .
(321) 453-6641
A T.U.F. VIEW
The Merlin is one tough little aeroplane. It was originally designed by
John Burch a Canadian ultralight instructor. The 42 inch wide cabin, is
quite comfortable for even the largest of pilots. When powered by the
582 Rotax engine climb rate is 700 feet per minute with a cruise in the
75 to 80 m.p.h. range. Stall is 35 m.p.h.
Several engine options are available
including the 582 and 912 Rotax, the Cam 100, and Continental series of
engines. This is one rugged little trainer, but its take off distance
and climb rates when on floats is not impressive.
Problems have been reported with the wing and
airframe when the craft is equipped with the heavy, more horsepower
engines.
The Ultralight Flyer rates
The Factory...............................7.5
The Merlin GT............................8.0
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