It is not possible to fly any airplane without breaking an FAR on every flight but you will probably be more comfortable with the gross weight increase. The problem is not a new one. There used to be the problem of taking a flight exam in the airplane because there were very few examiners who weighed little enough to fly with the pilot. Converting from the C or CD model to the D involves a significant increase in landing speeds which some people find objectionable. Consider converting to an E model by installing the split elevator which will give better low speed handling. My 1997 Skyport catalog lists FMK39 splt elevator at $750 with a $100 core charge. This change can be made at a later date if you find that the landing speed is not as you want. The flight characteristics of the E model are very nice. The approach to stall is about the same power on or power off. Otherwise there is no difference in performance. Indicated minimum speed on my airplane is about 45 mph which produces some reasonabley short landings. Bob Condon
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