When I first thought of building an airplane, the Vertical Power VPX hadn't even been made yet! Being a wireman by trade, I wasn't intimidated by the wiring process and having wired other projects prior to building the airplane it wasn't going to be a problem. In fact, I was looking forward to the job! As my RV-7 project neared completion another builder and fellow electrician mentioned using the VPX Pro to me and suggested that I incorporate it into my build. I hadn't even considered the VPX until then. I was set on using fuse blocks and being content with that. It wasn't until I discovered the VPX's reporting functions, the trim and flap mixing ability, flap over-speed alert, landing light wig-wag function, under-current alerts and much more that I began really considering incorporating it into my build.
My panel was to be an IFR capable, Garmin G3X system and with technology like that, fuses would be underwhelming! (Besides, it gives me a talking point when showing off to the Cirrus crowd... they don't have anything like this in their planes!) I pulled the trigger and ordered it. As I suspected, the wiring job was the most fun part of the build! Unfortunately, it went by extremely fast thanks to the VPX system. It was super easy to install and has been working great for almost 900 hours over the course of 3 years and at a range of temperatures from minus 20 to 110 Fahrenheit! It has reported fuel pump problems and incorrect current draws with perfection. Whatever I build next will have a VPX system on board it too!
I am currently completing my instrument rating in my plane. It has been a long time coming and WAAAAY overdue. When I pass my checkride, I am pointing the ship North to Alaska this summer for my reward! My plan is to depart the Boston area to the North, pass though Montreal, Ottawa, Alberta and the Yukon Territory en route to the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska. While there I plan on doing some fishing and exploring. The small outback villages appeal to me. Talkeetna is especially appealing. Coming home I plan on flying the coastal route to Seattle and then making my way across Montana, Idaho and landing at Oshkosh for the show.
If you are along my route this summer and would like to chat about the VPX and/or trade accommodations for a ride, I would be happy to oblige! I can't believe I built this thing in my garage! It was far and away the most rewarding thing I have ever done.
John Sannizzaro
RV-7 N357JS
Plymouth, MA USA
Editor's Note: As of the publishing of this story, John has completed his instrument rating and the trip to Alaska.