CHAPTER 3.2 - FIELDWORK
This chapter documents some of my efforts to get out "in the field" and see completed aircraft, on-going projects, and meet with fellow members of the Cozy IV community.

Growing up in WI, I've got great shots of a variety of Cozys at OSH over the years.

Also, on Feb. 15 2004 I was privileged to meet with Eric Westland, N325PD. Thanks again Eric for all your helpful information and access to your beautiful aircraft!

OSH 2001 - One of the Cozys that competed in that year's Air Race.

Another Cozy at OSH, a Mk. III I believe. By seeing several airplanes side by side like this you can get a feel for how the individual builder's sense of styling comes through in certain areas, most notably the nose shape. Personally, I find the Cozy to be most attractive with a more rounded nose.

Here's my dad with N23CZ, also at OSH2001.

One of my favorite Cozy's that I've seen in person, N871F. The rounded nose and the nice transition into the engine cowling are features I'll try hard to emulate on my bird when the time comes.

These shots are from my visit with Eric Westland at his hangar north of Seattle. Here Eric is giving the tour with my girlfriend Luciana looking on.

The excellent craftsmanship of N325PD is definitely something I find inspirational. The time spent and attention-to-detail are evident no matter where you happen to look at the airplane.

Well, here's the big test -- just how would I fit my 6'-6" frame in a plans-standard Cozy? Well, in some ways it was better than expected, and in some ways abit worse. Either way, the Cozy will never be considered roomy. It's named a Cozy for a reason, I suppose. Since I'm used to squeezing into cars and well, pretty much anywhere else I sit, I didn't think it was too bad.

Ouch! Okay, it was abit snug around the legs, but Eric's plane actually has the seatback bulkhead moved forward 1" from the plans. I believe that once I go back 1" from the plans, highten the canopy some and fiddle with a thin upholstery for me, I can get the panel opening to cross closer to my knees instead of my thighs. Lots of options here, so I'm not too worried at this point.

A shot of the left seat's rudder/brake pedals. I'll most likely be installing a hang-down system that I'm seeing many other builders do. Either way, I'm not sure I'll be able to wear shoes....Nat Puffer probably hadn't planned on ever wearing size 14s when he designed it.

My gal Luciana trying out the back seats. She's 5'8", so she fit pretty well, although the headroom was less than I expected. With the turtleback up an inch it'll be better.

Tons of legroom in the back.

Checking the arm room. I can reach just about anywhere I need to in the cockpit.

CHAPTER DIARY

Well, overall I was very encouraged by what I found during my visit with Eric. The Cozy will first and foremost be a transportation device, so I'm very willing to trade a Cadillac interior for speed and simplicity. The seats were very comfortable as is, and so with the mods I've mentioned I should fit fine.

Now on to Chapter 4!!

Top