Building a Panther

What factory built parts will SPA be offering?
The kit will include all basic airframe parts. Upgrades of pre-built spars and fuel tanks will also be offered.  You can see a detailed list of all the part...
Tue, 28 Apr, 2020 1:41 PM
Wheels and Brakes
We recommend hydraulic brakes.   On the Prototype Panther N515XP we used the Tracey O'Brian hydraulic units.  The brakes we recommend, suppo...
Fri, 2 Oct, 2015 3:56 PM
Will the fiberglass cowling be split vertically or horizontally and what type of fasteners are used?
Horizontally split. There are many different choices available for attachment. Hinges, quarter-turn fasteners, and screws will all work.  The cowling will n...
Fri, 2 Oct, 2015 3:56 PM
Can I install tires larger than 500 x 5?
The wheel pants are sized for 11.400-5 wheel/tires. The 5.00x5 will work in the current wheel pants, anything larger will require larger pants.
Fri, 2 Oct, 2015 3:56 PM
What are the rivet options?
The Panther is designed to use an array of different rivets, and these requirements will be dictated in the plans. With that said, you as the builder have t...
Fri, 2 Oct, 2015 3:56 PM
Is riveting the main wing spar difficult and what tools are recommended?
Squeezing the AD6 rivets in the main spar is not difficult using HERE hydraulic squeezer. SPA has designed this rivet squeezer and loans it out to builders ...
Fri, 2 Oct, 2015 3:56 PM
Will the Panther/Cougar kits feature CNC pre-cut and pre drilled parts as do the Zenith/RV series of aircraft kits?
The skins will be pre-drilled and the ribs will be pre-formed and pre-drilled for the spar attachment, but not for the skin attachments.
Fri, 2 Oct, 2015 3:56 PM
Do the Panther Plans also include a Builders Manual?
The Panther plans are included in your kit purchase and are greatly accompanied by our builders manual.  The Builders Manual is an online interactive manual...
Tue, 28 Apr, 2020 10:02 AM
Where can I find How To Videos on forming ribs and riveting?
Here are some helpful videos for builders that are new or need a refresh on forming ribs and riveting. Please note that this is informational only - as all ...
Tue, 26 May, 2020 11:31 AM
Where can I buy the wing rib lightening hole flanging dies?
Flanging dies are not required, as the ribs will be supplied ready to install. 
Tue, 28 Apr, 2020 10:03 AM