Aircraft Weight

[AK Mauler]

I own an MX7-180AC, year 2000. The factory weight and balance gives a basic empty weight of 1502 and a useful load of 898 lbs. I am basically 60 lbs heavier than what Maule advertizes for this aircraft. What could possibly account for this discrepancy? It is basic VFR on 8.00X6.00 gear and the O-360C4F solid crank engine. I am curious if others have similar experience or is my airplane "big-boned" or something?

[rjb]

My 2006 MX7-180C IFR equipped with 8.50 x6 wheels has a useful
load of 932 according to the AFM.

[maules.com]

The aircraft have improved over time since the model concept, an added rivet here, an extra nut and bolt there, heavier wing skin, better door frames, firewall, windshield etc etc Nicer and stronger cost lbs. The C model is about 50lb heavier than the B model. The original MX7 180A of 1993 was offered without long range tanks and pumps etc and without a Gyro panel. I am selling one tomorrow that weighs 1347.2 with long range tanks but no Gyros and no radios.
Just as a reference, the wireing bundle alone for an Stec 60 autopilot weighs in at 11.2lbs. Your equipment list will give you weights of individual items on your plane.

[AK Mauler]

Jeremy, thanks for the reply. I really thought something might be different with my aircraft since it is the first MX7-180 with the spring gear. I would expect the factory advertised weight to include the basic IFR panel and gyros and long range tanks. I really am at a loss what my plane might have that could account for 60 pounds over the advertised weight for the 180-AC model.

[maules.com]

I forgot to mention that the fixed pitch 180's are 2400lbs gw and the constant speed version is 2500lbs gw.