Dec 20, 2023     Builder log updates - (5.0 hours) Category: Research

Several hours over course of several weeks to update online builder's log. I hadn't uploaded pictures since Nov 2022 and when got ready to do so several weeks back, I couldn't log entries between Sept 2022 and Aug 2023. I was clicking box top left of task lists that showed "latest dated entries" Seems it only lists backwards just a few months. I was concerned all was lost but contacted website host who told me to click on "show ALL entries" in column of tasks lists. Spent last several days uploading photos between Nov 2022 and Aug 2023. Now, I'm all caught up.

  Dec 17, 2023     DAR paperwork help - (2.0 hours) Category: Research

Will call it "research" to learn from DAR Frank Sperandeo how to fill out paperwork for Airworthiness inspection coming in about 4 weeks

  Sep 09, 2023     Reading and studying for next steps - (2.5 hours) Category: Research

Spent some time writing down what needs to be done. Need to read about final windshield install details, turtle deck install, G3X config and do some YouTube searching for same.

  Jul 17, 2023     ECU wiring questions - (2.0 hours) Category: Research

I'm confused on the ECU wiring. I have two pages from Edge performance with conflicting info on how to wire the ECU and Alternator warning lights. Will need to get an email to Stol Creek for answers.

  Apr 25, 2023     hole cutter trial - (3.5 hours)       Category: Research

Spent some time trying to find some hole cutters or some technique to cut proper size holes in aluminum panel. Finally came up with some cutters by Craftsman at Lowe's. Their sizes available came closest to size that I needed Bought three independent sized hole cutters in almost exact needed size.
Also spent almost 2 hours on internet trying to figure out the "three parts" from Garmin to use for the RPM pick up sensor and small resistor for oil pressure sensor wiring. Had to learn about Zenner diode and how to order a small 1/4 watt resistor. I ended up with 5 parts from GArmin. Seems I got two required resistors. two regular Diodes and one Zenner diode.

  Apr 01, 2023     Unlogged reading and research - (24 hours) Category: Research

I have been somewhat remiss in logging work hours. All kinds of squirrels (distractions) running everywhere. Trying to find wire up some of engine sensors, reading on GEA 24 wiring, long hours trying to find HI/LO for Rpm senor wire (W/Y, B/Y), ordering multiple little parts, panel design, switch design, how many switches needed, how many circuits....and on and on. Still somewhat hesitant about actually working on plane afraid I'll screw up something.

  Jan 30, 2023     More reading - (4.0 hours) Category: Research

Several hours over several days reading up on more wiring for avionics.

  Dec 12, 2022     More reading - (30 hours) Category: Research

More and more reading. I'm kind of paralyzed thinking about the wiring. I want it done right but lack confidence in doing the work.

  Nov 10, 2022     learning about electrical - (40 hours) Category: Research

Lots of reading in manuals for aux alternator install, EP914iS install, Rotax 912/914 install, AeroElectric connection (Bob Nuckolls) basics, AEA G3 install books from course 2 years ago
Hours for recent and for near future reading.

  Oct 11, 2022     Windshield study - (2.0 hours) Category: Research

Spent time looking at and studying windshield and trying to learn how it is all supposed to fit. Try fitting has whole window a little too far forward as I have almost no overhang on aft end over rear cross-through. Next work session, i'll do some preliminary trimming to see if can get to fit better.
I've read so much about care needed for this part of build. I don't want to screw up a $1000 part.

  Sep 27, 2022     Engine sensors - (6.0 hours) Category: Research

Did a little final fitting of CamLocks on upper cowl. Drew circle on front cowl to trim back of spinner backing. Most of the time was talking with Mike Busenitz of Stolreek about sensor and wires on engine. Then spent time trying to find compatible sensors for the engine. Did research on internet and TeamKitfox suggested to check G3x install manual. Found what sensors and models Garmin has used in past. Most of the CHT, MP, and Fuel pressure sensors I had already in "cart" for AC Spruce order. Then spent time trying to figure out where to put the large fuel filter after the electric fuel pump and how to run fuel lines and what fittings I needed. Another hour or so, I finally pulled the plug and ordered some AN6-PTFE fittings for fuel line and the sensors and smaller parts like windshield gaskets and anti skid paper for rudder pedals. Now back to CAP stuff...of course.

  Sep 26, 2022     Engine e-mail to Stolcreek - (7.0 hours) Category: Research

Spent all day composing e-mail to STolcreek asking about various items on my engine. Also did lot of reading on G3X install to try to understand about sensor and sensor leads.
Also got permission to return some unused kit items: i.e. dual pin door latch and choke cables for carbs.
Filled out paperwork for AC registration and asked Kitfox for correct Bill-of-sale with correct airframe serial number.
Packed and shipped parts back to Kitfox and got Notary sig on AC registration.

  Sep 18, 2022     Winshield and glare shield install - (4.0 hours) Category: Research

Several hours spent on researching TeamKitFox about installing windshield and glare shield. Picked up a couple of pointers but most problems seemed to be with breakage on older posts. Other issue with how much overhang of plexiglass over butt rib onto/over #1 rib. Also looked at ways to seal windshield to boot cowl.
I still don't don't know how to do word search on Team Kit Fox as most of my searchs on "windshield" never mentioned windshield at all in listed posts.

  Sep 10, 2022     Time for logging on this site - (3.0 hours) Category: Research

Couple of weeks behind in logging what I have done and 2.5 months behind in loading pictures to match my logs. Will try to stay more current in future.

  Aug 31, 2022     Time for logging on this site - (2.0 hours) Category: Research

Spent an hour or so down-loading photos, labeling and describing event logs

  Aug 15, 2022     Learning about my engine - (8.0 hours)       Category: Research

I spent hours reading about engine, install instructions for Rotax 912iS, 914, EP914STi, Kitfox instructions, I have to take bits and pieces from each to get install done. Also learning what all components mounted onto engine do or function.

  Aug 08, 2022     Firewall research - (2.0 hours) Category: Research

Still trying to visualize how to put all together. Got some hints from builder on EAA builders website. Not much help found on Team Kitfox. I kind of see about mounting stuff on firewall. Still working with mock-up placement on the floor.

  Aug 03, 2022     Firewall research - (9.0 hours) Category: Research

Have spent many hours over several days trying to figure out what and where holes are needed in the firewall. The SS firewall material is very hard to drill when mounted on airframe. With firewall on floor with wood block backup, holes are easily drilled. I came up with idea to lay firewall on the floor and use masking tape to attach components to the firewall to see how will fit and work with each other. I have read Kitfox engine install for 914, Edge performance install for EFI on Rotax and Rotax manual for 912iS and 914...all trying to learn all parts that need to connect and what needs to be mounted on firewall...somewhere.

  Aug 03, 2022     Firewall mounting - (10 hours)       Category: Research

Research on firewall. Trying to figure out all holes needed to drill. Very difficult to drill SS firewall material when on airframe. Much easier when laying on floor with wood block backing for drilling. Spending time to get my head wrapped around engine install and all the items to be mounted on or through the firewall. I even laid out the firewall on floor and used masking tape to hold items in position to see how all fit together. Last thing was to install all fuel fittings to see how fittings meshed with engine mount framework. Once I'm happy, I'll start marking and drilling holes.

  Jul 21, 2022     computer research time - (2.0 hours) Category: Research

Computer research on nose gear and how to bleed aircraft brakes.

  Jun 28, 2022     Boot cowl and FWF install research - (3.0 hours) Category: Research

Spent time online with TeamKitfox and build manual to learn about boot cowl install and start of FWF install. I need to get my head wrapped around future steps to digest and completely understand what I an suppose to do.

  Jun 24, 2022     brake lines - (3.0 hours)       Category: Research

Spent several hours reading about brake line install. Picked up several pointers.

  Jun 11, 2022     AC tire change video - (.7 hour) Category: Research

Online research about mounting tire and tube on AC wheels. I had general idea but watched video anyway to confirm procedures. Spent longer learning how to do the tire mounting and locating the parts in the garage than to actually do the tires.

  Mar 08, 2022     Reading and YouTube - (3.0 hours) Category: Research

Spent 3.0 hours scattered over couple days to read ahead in KitFox assembly manual and figuring out what to do next and how to go about doing it.

  Feb 15, 2022     Fuel pump/ Alternator questions Category: Research

Talk with Michael Busenitz at Stolcreek.

Fuel pumps CAN be mounted forward of fuselage. If near exhaust, may need metal deflector.

Electric Fuel pumps will pull 5-6 amps consistently as they are primary.....no mechanical fuel pump on engine. Recommend alternate between fuel pumps during usage to balance wear. Run only one at a time.

Look at EFI install download for info on engine install. Lot of photos on later pages

BNC 425 alternator driven off of vacuum pump pad will NOT fit as accessory pad on rotax on back of gear box at top.....no room between mount and intake manifold. Look for belt driven alternator from Rotax.

  Feb 10, 2022     Engine install research - (6 hours)       Category: Research

I'm stuck again. Trying to figure out what all I still need to install before covering fuselage. I know I still have fuel lines to install but will do that after I cover and turn fuselage back upright. I saw that fuel pumps need to be installed. Trying to figure out what and where they go. I looked in my engine crate and found a large, dual fuel pump assembly but no instructions with my engine about how to install all the parts. Looking at Kitfox engine install and Rotax install instructions for 914 and 915iS. Kitfox said fuel pumps behind or under seat pan and on fire wall with special container. Rotax says 914 pumps NOT on fire wall. No room under seat pan for my pumps. Could mount behind seat but would require 10+ feet of additional fuel line under seat pan.....fuel tank to shut off valve, shutoff back to fuel pumps, fuel pumps back past shutoff to firewall. Would be nice if could mount on firewall and protect pumps somehow.
I have a call into Stolcreek and Mike Busenitz about this and other items.

  Jan 12, 2022     GSA 28 wiring search - (15 hours) Category: Research

After many hours of research over days and weeks and reading and final contact with Kitfox, determined I needed the TCW booster pack to get the GSA 28 AP to work. Trim motor needs over 5 amps and GSA 28 can only handle up to 1 amp. Never could get a straight answer from Garmin if GAD 27 would work instead.....so another AFU (aviation financial unit) needed to solve problem. Will try to hawk GAD 27 on RV user group. They can use its capabilities more than Kitfox.

  Jan 03, 2022     Reading on AP servo connections - (8 hours) Category: Research

Still trying to figure out wiring for AP servos and incorporation of GAD 27 into the mix. Email into Brandon at KF. Then need to call Garmin for confirmation

  Dec 29, 2021     Wiring research - (8 hours) Category: Research

Still trying to get my head wrapped around all wiring especially GSA 28 servos and use of GAD 27 (electric controller). I spent $600 for GAD 27 but not sure I really need it. Still trying to figure out wiring for AP servos. If GAD 27 is used, then much more wiring involved.

  Oct 07, 2021     Test painting - (6.0 hours)       Category: Research

Did more research on painting with Latex (actually 100% acrylic). Had some white primer paint, some white paint from doing First Aid sign at ski area and some paint I plan to use for final color. My plan is to cover pink Poly Brush with white paint and then go to color. Took my test fabric covering frame and covered with couple layers of Poly Brush then applied the primer, urethane/acrylic, and Weather beater brand of paint. After two days, able to scrape off Primer but NOT the other two paints. Even did similar test on the four coats of very shiny Poly Brush to see how bonded. After two days, unable to remove ANY paint at all from the fabric test frame nor from the small patches on the plane.

  Sep 20, 2021     Latex painting research - (2.0 hours) Category: Research

Research again about using acrylic latex enamel to cover plane.

  Jul 26, 2021     Oshkosk - (96 hours) Category: Research

3 days at Oshkosk looking at finished Kitfoxs and attending forums on Garmin install. Good trip, Camped out. Rained on two of three nights. Gear inside tent stayed dry. Walking around in 85+ temps and 85% humidity got me soaking wet.

  Jul 18, 2021     Covering, wiring, avionics research, paint - (5.0 hours) Category: Research

Spent several hours doing various research about wiring, covering, paint, avionics. My mind running all directions trying to learn all. Need to get proper wire secured into wings before covering. Trying to figure what to order for avionics, wiring for CAN bus.

  Jul 11, 2021     Figuring out next steps - (9 hours) Category: Research

Spent 9 hours over couple days trying to get my head wrapped around next steps. Wings ready to cover and tail feathers almost ready (need to smooth and/or varnish rib edges on tail feathers). Before finishing covering wings, need to run some wiring. I need to figure out to run/secure wiring. Need to create plugs at rib #10 to accommodate removable wing tips. Still need to figure out how to run wiring done rear spar. Also need to run wire and pitot tubes left wing and wiring for magnetometer in right wing.

  May 06, 2021     Reading - (2.5 hours) Category: Research

Couple of hours for Team Kitfox research

  Apr 01, 2021     Reading - (3.0 hours) Category: Research

Spent about 3+ hours over couple of days to figure out what to do next. Looked up Rivet nuts, Nut plates, Nutserts, teamkitfox.
Trying to figure out about future installation of either nut plates, or rivet nuts or something else.
Dedcided to go with instruction manual for time being and consider rivet-nuts down the road. Rivet-nuts need a special tool and adapters for each size of machine screw used.....cheap tool is over $80.

  Jan 22, 2021     Research and reading - (3.0 hours) Category: Research

Research and reading to understand upcoming build projects.

  Jan 22, 2021     Builder log entries - (8.0 hours) Category: Research

Multiple hours over last several months doing updates to builders log.

  Dec 30, 2020     Engine research for Edge Perormance models. - (3.0 hours) Category: Research

Trying to decide what engine to install. I heard about Edge Performance engines from Norway base on Rotax cores. 20 extra horsepower using big bore cylinders, Turbo charged with fuel injection setup for much less than Rotax. 50 psi boost gives 150hp.

  Nov 18, 2020     parts order - (1.5 hours)       Category: Research

ordered parts:

  Oct 28, 2020     Checking other build videos. Reading manual - (3.0 hours) Category: Research

Spent several hours looking at other KitFox build videos. Also spent some time reading construction manual for next steps.
During this time, I finally destroyed my broken laptop computer (frozen hinge with crack screen bezel), new computer wouldn't start, decided to replace weak battery on my iPhone.
My older laptop developed a "frozen" hinge. First noticed when I tried to close computer and heard a "crack". Hinge would move and screen bezel cam apart on left side exposing multiple wires and connections.....but,,,it still worked. Got a new laptop (HP Envy) and really a lot nicer than old one. I kept the old one while I used used to using the new one. Was going to keep old, broken one in garage near workbench for convenience. I moved the rudder, which moved the build manual, which fell off the work bench, which hit the power cord, which pulled the computer to the floor, which caused the screen to completely break off of the keyboard. But then my replacement battery arrived for my i-phone. Using i-Pad and new computer to watch videos on battery replacement technique. I had problems with new computer getting to sign-on screen. I would start computer, keyboard didn't work and computer would shut down. No problem still had my i-pad. The 3-5 minute job touted on You-tube to replace battery was total BS. I spent a good 45 minutes reviewing 4 different instructional videos and watched each a couple of times......none totally agreed with the others....several significant differences in technique. I used a combination of steps but it still took almost 20 minutes to get phone split open. After opening phone three times (short some tools and problems getting battery out) I make a final try....I get the battery out and upon trying to finish and close phone, I see ANOTHER torn cable......phone has been killed. I race down to Verizon to get another phone before store closed for two weeks. New computer fixed same day......there is a key on keyboard that locks the keyboard......who knew?!?!
Things did get better over next day or so.

  Aug 16, 2020     Impass - (10 hours) Category: Research

I've been kind of stuck about getting anything done. Very apprehensive about next few steps and they seem to be critical and I have no clue and minimal confidence. I'll push through eventually

  May 31, 2020     YouTube reseach - (1.0 hour) Category: Research

Watched several videos Kilo7fox, Project Kitfox for a couple of sites, for several building hints and see what I'm faced with.

  May 28, 2020     online supply order - (4.0 hours) Category: Research

Spent several hours looking into Polyfiber, Amazon and Aircraft Spruce looking for need items.....paint, chemical paint respirator, aluminum treatment (Alodine), paper cups, squeeze bags, spatula. Very difficult to find a respirator in stock and then have one delivered sooner than 6 weeks wait on deliver. Should have most of what I need in next week or so. This COVID-19 has created some real issues for me.....no respirator, no alcohol for cleaning, delayed shipments
Next, need to fit floor boards and cargo floor in preparation for varnish. Will start on control build but need aluminum treatment and epoxy primer for pre-made aluminum parts before I go too much further.

  Mar 09, 2020     EAA Electrical workshop - (15 hours) Category: Research

EAA electrical wiring workshop for basics in wiring for Aircraft panels. Did projects for antenna cable lead, various type of pressed on connectors, Wired up a basic intercom wiring harness....tested and it worked. Also did a soldering project to created minature electrical panel with basic lighting circruit along with light circuiet with a dimmer.
Course was in Fremont CA just east of San Jose in San Francisco area.

  Feb 10, 2020     Copper STate flyin in Buckey AZ just west of Phoenix - (10 hours) Category: Research

Did a forum course for metal riviting and second course on basic fiber glassing. Also wandered exhibits learning about different systems and parts for possible inclusion into panel. Able to see fancy "Butterfly" Kitfox recently finished from Phoenix area. Talked with Debra and Richard McBean of Kitfox and found they may have turn key panel system by late May 2020.

  Jan 13, 2020     Eaa workshop on Fabric covering - (16.0 hours) Category: Research

EAA Fabric covering workshop. Workshop in Las Vegas to learn Poly Fiber covering processing using Poly fiber chemicals. Poly-tac, poly brush, medium weight fabric cemented, overlapped, seams covered all using poly brush all used to cover a wing (actually DC-3 aileron). Team of 8 people got the wing covered and rib stitching started all first day. Fabric shrunk, demo on heat shrinking fabric on curved surfaces. Rib stitches comleted and fabric over stitches. DEmo on repair for tear in fabric.
Good course. Process with many steps but none are difficult if steps follower properly

  Jan 08, 2020     Kitfox Test flight and factory visit - (6 hours) Category: Research

Demo flight in Kitfox.in Caldwell, ID Got to do hands-on flying for about 0.5 hrs. Talk with instructor for couple of hours on Kitfox handling and suggested engine combos.
Also took brief tour of factory.
Next day went skiing at Bogus Mountain, ID

  Jan 07, 2020     Research on kit and possible avionics - (10 hours) Category: Research

Reading multiple articles over last several months researching Kitfox options and reading about various avionics to possibly included into kit. I have listed 10 hours but actually much more than that over last several months.
I place initial $5000 deposit back in May 2019 with estimated kit delivery date of May 2020. Just my luck that plane I have planned to build for over 25 years would become so popular in last 12-18 months. Delivery time used to be only 3-4 months. Got a call from Kitfox that production was being increased and to expect delivery in April.
I journey this coming weekend to spend two days learning fabric covering in Las Vegas EAA sponsored course. Then on to Boise area to visit Kitfox factory and determine options I want on my kit. Also plan for demo ride at Kitfox flying school just down road from factory. Updates after/during the trip