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SlingTsi Build Wrap Up

The YouTube video "SlingTsi Build Wrap Up" from the channel "First Rivet" serves as a comprehensive update and wrap-up of a Sling TSI aircraft build that began in July 2021. The video was uploaded in August 2025, providing an update that was promised earlier but delayed. Here's a full summary description of the video: Project Overview and Duration: The build, primarily done by myself, took just 3 years to the month. The kit arrived in July 2021, and inventory was completed over a couple of weeks. Other builders have completed similar "flat build" kits in as little as 12 months by building full-time. The finished plane was flown back from the paint shop in early July 2025 and then taken to Oshkosh a couple of weeks later. Build Process and Kit Types: We chose the "flat build kit," where all parts come in boxes and require complete assembly. This method is less expensive as you're not paying others to assemble parts. Other options include the "quick build kit," where wings and fuselage are mostly pre-assembled, accounting for about 49% of the build based on tasks. The "builder assist" program involves working at a facility with their tools and staff to complete the 51% of tasks you're responsible for. I consider the Sling an "easy build" with parts fitting perfectly when assembled correctly. Instructions are very good up to the firewall, becoming "a little interesting after that". A key tip for builders is to work on the project every day to avoid lag time in remembering where you left off. Support System: I want to emphasize that the build was not a solo process, relying on friends and family for support, including neighbors for storage and heavy lifting, Adam (camera person) for first flight video help, Don, lifelong friend Jeff, and his wife for managing home affairs. The Sling community is described as a "family-oriented operation" where everyone helps each other. EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) chapters offer "technical counselors" who are experienced aircraft builders and can inspect major components before closing them up, which is helpful for the DAR inspection. Sling's official technical support is available via bulletin board, Discord, Facebook, and email. Builders should be mindful of the time difference with South Africa (where manufacturing is based) when emailing. Aircraft Performance and Features: The Sling TSI is a "very capable airplane" with good performance. It flies at about 145 knots indicated at 80% power, seeing 160-165 knots across the ground, with a fuel burn rate of 9 gallons per hour. It has great range, with over 4.5 hours of flight time and 12 gallons of reserves remaining. Paint Scheme: Designed by Evoke and painted by Cascade Custom Painting (a family-owned business in Bend, Oregon). Features a checkerboard fading into the wing, a carbon fiber inlay, and a black stripe with red elements that sparkle in direct sunlight. The rest of the wing has a pearl paint job. White ramps were chosen over black to reduce heat absorption. The red color aimed for a "Ferrari red" but turned out more like an auburn. Camera Mounts: The wings were built with plates at the wingtips (top and bottom) that include USB connections for charging cameras and rivnuts for structural stability, intended for video work in the Colorado mountains. Avionics: Midwest Panels built the panel, which I highly recommend for their top-notch workmanship and expertise. The setup includes a standard G3X, 650, GFC500, G5, and an Airmaster prop. Unique Additions: A “certified” horn was installed (useful at airports given the quiet Rotax 915 engine). An "obligatory passenger jack button" was added for fun. Rossen sun visors are highly recommended despite adding some noise, as they provide good visibility. Safety Features: Emergency tools like a seatbelt cutter and plexiglass piercer are on both sides of the plane for passenger egress. Weight Management for CG: A 20-pound custom tool kit is stored under the passenger seat, and a 15-20 pound Claw tie-down bag is kept on the pilot's side, adding 35-40 pounds of forward center of gravity (CG) to manage potential forward CG issues (FCG) with the TSI. Insurance: This is a crucial consideration and can be expensive, especially without prior instructed time in the aircraft. Rates decreased once I accumulated 85 hours in the plane. Transition training is highly recommended to keep insurance rates low, with opportunities available from Midwest Panel Builders, Sky Sports, and training centers in Torrance, California. The Sling TSI flies differently than heavier certified aircraft and is described as a "little sports car". Cost and Reflection: Aircraft prices have increased due to tariffs, but I feel he got a good deal. I'm open to feedback and questions, offering to create quick videos on maintenance topics like oil changes if requested. His future content may be more related to aviation in Colorado rather than specific First Rivet channel topics.