Jim wrote:

What's your opinion about the best taildragger that has room for at least 2
adults plus kids? Reasons and experiences please.

I'd say a Cessna 180. Kids don't stay kids for long, and the 180 will carry
four adults. All metal, so it doesn't have to be hangared. Any A&P knows how
to work on one. They *are* getting old, though, and good ones don't come cheap.

The Maule MX-7-180B would be cheaper. They will also carry four, but they're
a bit more cramped inside. Fuselage is fabric, which may give periodic trouble
if kept outside. They're newer planes and parts are very easy to find. The 180B
has a 180hp Lycoming with a CS prop. Avoid the 160 and 235hp models. They won't
carry the load that the 180 carries. Check http://www.mauleairinc.com for
performance specs.

Stinsons are probably the best bang for the buck, but they're old and the
Franklin engines aren't made anymore. Parts are still available, since the
plant in Poland still has some engines they're parting out, but there could be
some real trouble ahead there. AOPA Pilot had a good article on them a few
months ago; should be on their web site somewhere.

George Patterson
A man who carries a cat by the tail learns something that can be learned
no other way.