Project: N64BN   -  
            Listing for Category : fuselage
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Builder Name:Bjorn Nilberg   -  
Project:   Vans - RV-7   -   VIEW REPORTS
Total Hours:2193.5
Total Flight Time:1
Start/Last Date:Aug 15, 2013 - No Finish Date
Engine:Superior IO-360
Panel:Garmin G3x
 
Friendly URL: https://eaabuilderslog.org?s=N64BN

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May 17, 2021     Rethinking the parking brake - (1 hour)       Category: Fuselage
I think I will need to rotate the parking brake to facilitate an easier cable routing. Coming from the side it's much easier than from above as originally installed. It looks like I can even use the same mounting plate that is already riveted in place.


 
May 04, 2021     More placement planning - Firewall measurement - (2 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I never get tired of tweaking the placement of the LRUs using FreeCAD. I also have the harness routing in FreeCAD and decided to add the though holes in the firewall to the model so the Engine Monitor LRU can be positioned. Do I took some measurement for the holes I made ages ago.


 
Apr 26, 2021     Improving access to avionics bay - (2 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I bought the access kit from the mothership when it came out. I wasn't sure if I should install it, but the more I plan for the location of the LRUs I just can't see myself struggling with getting to the LRUs laying upside down in the footwell. So in it goes. The kit is super easy to install with alignment tabs to get a perfect location. Cutting into a perfect skin gave me flashbacks to when I made the landing/taxi light cut outs in the wings, many many many many years ago.....


 
Oct 03, 2020     SL-00014 RV-7/8/9 Tailcone Stiffener - (1 hour)       Category: Fuselage
What! a 7 months building pause AND while working from home. Well actually after my trip there was a bunch of follow-up with people in weird time zones, so I got worn down by lack of proper sleep. When these things happen, you lose the rhythm in the building and other things sneaks in.

So I thought I could start with the tail section stiffener kit. It's not an AD, but it easy to do and a goo way to re-boot the building.


 
Sep 19, 2018     Finished middle decks - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Got my squeezer back from AtlanticAirTool. To assure correct setting of the rivets, I retested with my scrap setup. That was a good idea as the action had changed due to the replacement of new internal parts.
Instead of two AN960 washers, it only needed one AN960L washer. The riveting was pretty quick. Now the middle decks are all done.


 
Aug 29, 2018     Middle deck riveting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
The test pieces I experimented with for the middle deck riveting turned out great, so decided to rivet the middle deck. It went fine until the squeezer decided to lock up and do a death grip on my fuselage. It has always been a little slow to retract (20 seconds) so I should have known better than continue using it. Well, tonight I got punished, I now have a squeezer permanently installed on mu longeron. I supported it with boxes and towel just in case it would let go later on during the night. I have to find a way to remove it.


 
Aug 26, 2018     Reveal, La Fuselage ! - (0.10 hour)       Category: Fuselage
I ceremoniously removed the vinyl from the fuselage. It took about 10 minutes plus 2-3 hours ogling the shiny metal. Preeeecioouus….


 
Aug 26, 2018     Finishing F-787 Stiffener web - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
I still have some rivets left on the F-787 Stiffener web and F-706 bulkhead to do. These were super simple rivet to squeeze.


 
Aug 26, 2018     Finishing the cabin frame - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
After panicking for about 2 seconds and fearful that I have messed up, I discovered that I had to bolt/screw on the F-731D to the cabin frame before attaching the assembly to the F-705 bulkhead.
The two countersunk screws are behind the skin while the other two is through the skin.


 
Aug 26, 2018     Middle deck - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
My custom middle deck have to be trimmed a little for clearance before they get primed and painted. I masked off with some tape and used a fine tip pen to mark it, the idea was that if I file off until the line is gone the clearance will be good.
That worked like a charm, I will prime and paint tomorrow.


 
Aug 25, 2018     Shoulder harness anchor attachments - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
With the top skin riveted, I can also bolt on the shoulder harness anchor attachments. They also would have blocked the skin riveting.
All the plush stuff were still in there for the riveting so I packed up what I needed and travelled into the tailcone abyss once again...
Travel bag:
- All hardware that need to be installed
- Torque wrench
- Torque seal
- Water and map (just kidding)


 
Aug 25, 2018     Finishing F-705 riveting - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
After my tailcone safari, it was time to attack the last rivets in the F-705. I discovered that I have good access from the rear side of the F-705, so reversed rivet is what I went for.
Pretty easy riveting


 
Aug 23, 2018     Started the finishing F-705 riveting - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
With the top skin in place, I could complete the riveting of the F-705 bulkhead. These rivets is the ones that binds together the beefy angle (F-705G) with the hardware for the canopy frame. Either the skin rivets in that area have to be pulled rivets or you have to wait with the F-705G riveting until the skin is riveted. I selected the latter.
I did mostly all of them, but there are a few I cannot get to because the forward deck is blocking access. I guess I should have waited with the decks.... now I have to find away to get rivet access or use bolts.


 
Aug 22, 2018     Top skin riveting - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
With the help of Carol the riveter, we finished the top skins. This was the first for me to dive into the tail cone, which I didn't look forward to.
It turned out to be a non-event. I had plenty of foam and support to avoid bending the bulkhead with my phat ass. It was sparingly comfortable, just remember to use ear protection as the sounds rings well inside the fuselage.


 
Aug 21, 2018     Top skin riveting - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued riveting the top skin


 
Aug 20, 2018     Top skin riveting - (3.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Continued riveting the top skin
 
Aug 19, 2018     Prep for top skin riveting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
As prep for the top skin riveting, I primed the overlapping areas and skins.


 
Aug 19, 2018     Top skin riveting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started riveting the top skin. I'll rivet as much as I can solo, but will soon require assistance from my favorite rivet shooter.


 
Aug 08, 2018     Tested new-old squeezer - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
I got a alligator type squeezer from ebay which I plan to use for the riverting of the added deck in the baggage area. I think it would be best to test with some scrap before jumping on the airplane. The scrap used have the exact same dimensions as the real parts and it turned out pretty good.


 
Aug 02, 2018     Console adjustment - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
As I was measuring my heel position for my carpets on order, I realized the center console is much higher then the armrest.
I measured up and cut it down at the same level as the armrest.


 
May 13, 2018     Installed the rear elevator pushrod - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Installed the rear elevator pushrod, set the length by clamping the elevators in neutral and the bell crank locked in vertical position with a 3/8 socket. I also checked the stick forward/aft alignment. It leans forward 10 degrees, so I need to elongate the forward pushrod a little.

Apart from that the action was smooth, no binding and no strange sounds.
 
May 11, 2018     Drilled out another floor panel - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Drilled out another floor panel. I am leaning towards making the floor removable. I am not to keen on having both passenger harness and wing rear spar bolts are hidden under riveted floors.
In addition I have more options for cable routing.
 
May 08, 2018     Drilled out a floor panel - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
I have been thinking of making the cabin floors removable and I also have a smashed rivet I need to look at, so I decided to drill out one panel just to test how easy it was.
The pulled rivets is a different beast than the standard ones, they require a slight different technique. I went fine, I got the access I wanted, but I am not 100% certain I want to remove 3 more panels. I'll sleep on it a little.
 
May 06, 2018     Empennage hardware - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the various empennage hardware and installed the rudder stop.
I made a real mess of one of the rivets and ended up using a size 5 rivet after numerous attempts.
Size 5 is actually easier to rivet then the 4.


 
May 02, 2018     Drilling vertical stabilizer - 6 - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Finished the tie in bracket. It's basically a 100% clone of the original but with the lower set of holes moved up 1/8 to get better edge distance.

I had drilled the two lower holes earlier, so I went ahead and upsized the upper attachment hole in the HS. I then took the VS of and drilled the upper row and upsized to #30 and deburred.

I mounted the tie-in bracket to the HS with AN3 bolts and used size 3 rivets to check stability It was completely solid so I clamped it, removed the HS and flipped it around for better access to the lower two holes, which I upsized to 3/16 for AN3 bolts.

I checked the bead/string the last time, it was dead on so I am very happy.

Next up is elevator and rudder stops adjustment. That's for tomorrow.


 
May 01, 2018     Drilling vertical stabilizer - 4 - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Started arranging for the VS offset. The tip is offset 1/4 from the centerline to compensate for the P-factor during cruise. Other airplanes have offset engine mount, this is just another way to solve the same problem.

I did drill the tie-in bracket, but I am not happy with the edge distance on the VS front spar. I plan to make a new one as I have bending brake and 0.063 sheet available.


 
May 01, 2018     Drilling vertical stabilizer - 3 - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I started by drilling the lower hole as this was the easiest with no edge distance issues and it also can be used to secure the VS better as clamps could not reach that low.

The two through the bracket was next. I started with #30 and measured, right on the money 3/8.
I upsized to 3/16 and measured again, 9/32 from the edge to the bolt, which translates to 3/8.

Phew, I am glad that one is over. I still wonder why Van's makes it 3/8 when 1/4 actually should have 1/2. According to answers given to other builders, any edge distance is acceptable. It makes sense as the loading is from the below (tail wheel pushed up) and it is plenty of material on the loading side.


 
May 01, 2018     Drilling vertical stabilizer - 5 - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Made a new tie in bracket as the pre-drilled provided put the holes to close to the edge.
I basically copied the hole pattern except the lower row and I also made it oversized so I can trim it for proper edge distance.

First I match drilled the bracket to the HS spar with #30, they will later be upsized to 3/16 for AN3 bolts.

Second step was to match drill the middle holes from bracket to spar and the lower from spar to bracket. All #40, later I will ream up to #30. But that is for another day.
 
Apr 30, 2018     Drilling vertical stabilizer - 1 - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started fitting the vertical stabilizer. There is a lot of measurement to assure the position is straight and vertical.
The height is measured from the longeron to the lower bracket. The 'verticalness' is assured by measuring from the top to the same place on the horizontal stabilizer. In addition I used a string through a bead located at the top hinge bracket through the two other hinge bracket. It was dead on and I will keep checking throughout the drilling process.


 
Apr 30, 2018     Drilling vertical stabilizer - 2 - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
After drilling the VS spar to the elevator stop, it was removed and measurement was made to make sure the lower bolts were positioned correctly. Luckily I had made a footprint of the tail wheel bracket on the bulkhead and with measurements I transferred that footprint to the VS spar.
The aim is to get 3/8 edge distance on both tail wheel bracket and the lower hinge bracket.


 
Mar 10, 2018     Primed and painted new tunnel cover - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Primed and painted new tunnel cover
 
Mar 07, 2018     New flap motor - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Someone on VAF announced a new flap motor with internal positioning sensor. I ordered one a few weeks back and made a new flap actuator channel and mounting hardware. I measured the stroke of the stock motor and made sure to locate the new motor to have the same max and min positions.

Really happy with the results I position the assembly in the cabin only to find out that it interferes with the Almost RV-14 mod I did last month.

I'll wait until the wings are on and flaps adjusted to see if I can make it work.
 
Feb 11, 2018     Decks in baggage area - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I saw a local flying RV-7A slider a few years back with decks in the baggage area. I thought it looked great and got some RV-6 decks from Vans as they are undrilled.

It took a little careful measuring and it took a bit of tinkering, but it was easy to make the cut-outs for the aft fuse bulkhead and the hardware at the F-705 position.

I selected positions for the rivets and match drilled the existing bolt holes for Almost RV-14.

I will have to wait with the riveting until after the skins are in place as the deck limits the bucking access for those.


 
Feb 05, 2018     F-785A Backrest Brace and cross bar - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted nutplates and angle on the F-785A Backrest Brace. Riveted backrest support brackets on the cross bar. The top has been customized with the Almost RV-14 bracket, the bottom is standard.


 
Feb 04, 2018     Deburred, primed and painted Almost RV-14 - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Deburred, primed and painted Almost RV-14.


 
Jan 28, 2018     Almost RV-14 install - 10 - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I made filler plates to complete the shape around the bar. Then disassembled and drilled for nutplates in my new non-CNC part.

I knew that nutplate tool-thingy would be useful someday.


 
Jan 27, 2018     Almost RV-14 install - 9 - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
One of the last things to do is to trim the side panels for the connecting rod.
I made a 1/2 hole on some flashing material I had laying around. Created a slot so I could wrap it around the bar, I then marked where the panel holes would be and transposed the bar position to the panel.
I drilled a 1/2 + 3/16 in that position and made a cut out so I could insert the panel around the bar.
I am thinking of making some filler pieces for the opening behind the bar to avoid Skittles and M&M interfere with the flap action.


 
Jan 27, 2018     Almost RV-14 install - 8 - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
When I started assembling the flap motor housing, I couldn't get the F-785A Backrest Brace to fit. It wasn't even close, it was off by 1/4 inch. I decided to make a new one. Luckily I had some old parts I had planned to use for something else laying around. It's an undrilled EF-601, I believe it is Flap Actuator Channel for RV-6,
I put it into position and marked it for trimming.


 
Jan 22, 2018     Almost RV-14 install - 7 - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
The install instructions suggest to use the same size of bearing for the connecting rod. Didn't like how the holes ended up so I made my own (thicker and longer). The rod is 1/2 inch in diameter, but the hole (drilled with a fostner bit) required some sanding to fit. I removed a rivet that interfered when I drilled the blocks in place, as I plan to put it back in, I made a clearance for the manufactured rivet head.


 
Jan 21, 2018     Almost RV-14 install - 6 - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I cut of the hooks at each end and used new delrin bearings to create two independent hooks.
The new delrin bearing fit just inside the row of rivets.
I then removed one of the rivets and discovered that it aligned nearly perfectly with the hinge point. Hopefully this means I only need to enlarge this hole for the connecting mechanism.


 
Jan 20, 2018     Almost RV-14 install - 5 - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
With the Almost RV-14 hardware in place I started making the latch mechanism.
This entails cutting a new WD-617 canopy latch to make to separate latch hooks.
First I have to convert the old one to be used as a connecting bar coupling the left canopy latch with the right.
 
Jan 19, 2018     Almost RV-14 install - 4 - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
I clamped the bar in position and drilled the first holes through the existing hole in the longerons.
I then took it out, deburred and marked up the new holes. I drilled them first as #40, then used step reamers up to #19.


 
Jan 19, 2018     Almost RV-14 install - 1 - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the Almost RV-14 install by cutting out the old cross bar.
It's brutal to cut a perfectly good piece, so I tried to be gentle and make sure that if I want, it can be reinstalled. A split cross bar is also the only way to get it back in.


 
Jan 19, 2018     Almost RV-14 install - 2 - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the end caps to the bulkhead. The and caps are clamped in place without the angles, Then I drilled a few holes. Now I could put the angle back and match drill the remainder of the holes.
Then I repeated the process on the other side.


 
Jan 19, 2018     Almost RV-14 install - 3 - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Before the cross bar can be drilled the angle needs to be trimmed to avoid interference.
I noticed that the crossbar had some sideways movement. I marked the far left and right and made a mark at the mid point so the bar could be centered. This way the bar will be centered and edge distance will be assured on both sides.


 
Jan 13, 2018     Almost RV-14 - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Pulled out the Almost RV-14 kit I got a while back and started figuring out how to do the modification. The kit is ideally for a slider, but it can be fitted to a tip-up.
I tried to see how it interacts with the F-705 angle, I would need to do some trimming.
It looks like the hole distance is going to work.


 
Jan 08, 2018     Riveted the elevator pushrod - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the elevator pushrod


 
Jan 06, 2018     Primed the elevator pushrod - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Primed the elevator pushrod
 
Aug 14, 2017     Made slot for locking mechanism - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Marked and made a slot in the angle holding the latch handle. I plan to create some sort of locking mechanism and need a path for the dead bolt into the handle.
 
Aug 05, 2017     Riveted on the front decks - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started riveting the front decks. Started by riveting the two part together, then riveted them to the longerons. Again, with the rotisserie it is easy as I can get good working position and easily see the rivets being squeezed.

After the riveting I installed the canopy and admired the work.


 
Jul 30, 2017     Drilled the panel attach angles - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Clecoed on the panel measured. Checked the clearance with the canopy. With the panel aligned, I positioned and drilled the panel attach angles. After deburring, the panel angles was riveted to the decks.


 
Jul 16, 2017     Finished new the front decks - (4.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Deburred and dimpled the front decks. I also had to match them to the side skins by removing tiny portions of the edges. I then primed them and later painted them when I did the canopy frame.
 
Jul 15, 2017     New front decks - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled out the rivets for the front decks to prep for the new set. It was easy to remove them without causing damage due to the thick material and that the old decks are scrap.
Measured for the trimming of the new set and drilled them to the longerons.


 
May 23, 2017     Ordered new front decks Category: Fuselage
I decided to make me pay for my mis-drilling of the ball stud mounts by ordering new front decks.
That will teach me.
 
May 18, 2017     Ball Stud Mount - (0.50 hour) Category: Fuselage
I had ordered a couple of parts from Buller Enterprises a few days ago. Among them were a set of black anodized Ball Stud Mounts for the canopy strut. They are hole compatible with the stock mounts... if you are able to measure and make them correct in the first place. Well, I didn't. The result was that I couldn't use the new ones as the holes would end up too close to the old ones.
I could also replace the front decks. I have to think about that a little.
 
May 09, 2017     Lowered the fuselage cradle - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Lowered the fuselage cradle for better work height.
 
May 07, 2017     Put fuselage on cradle - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Positioned the cradle under fuselage and simply lowered down onto it, one end at the time.
Clecoed on both aft top skins and mounted the cabin frame.
 
Apr 30, 2017     Fuselage cradle - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Assembled fuselage cradle
 
Apr 26, 2017     Primed and painted F-705 angles - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
 
Apr 23, 2017     New F-705 angles - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I wasn't happy how I mangled up the beefy angles for the F-705, so I made new ones and drilled them to the F-705.


 
Apr 22, 2017     Cabin looking finished - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Just had to admire the cabin with most parts in place.


 
Apr 22, 2017     Riveted forward decks - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted forward decks. They are looking great. Again the rotisserie helped a lot for the riveting.


 
Apr 20, 2017     Painted F-704 - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Some of the anodized portions of the F-704 is exposed in then cabin. I decided to paint it in interior color.
 
Apr 17, 2017     Riveted on the panel angles on the forward decks - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the panel angles on the forward decks


 
Apr 17, 2017     Strut mounting hardware - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made the strut mounting hardware. There are blocks on each end of the strut. Unfortunately I messed up the drilling (wrong drill bit size) on one of them. I used nuts to hold it in place for now. I am going to make a new one.


 
Apr 11, 2017     Stripped canopy deck - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
The canopy deck was so beaten up I decided to strip and repaint. First step is the stripping.


 
Apr 08, 2017     Riveted doublers and stiffeners to aft top skin - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted doublers and stiffener plate to aft top skin. I find back riveting the most easy riveting method.


 
Apr 06, 2017     Aft fuselage conduits - (0.50 hour) Category: Fuselage
Zip-tied the conduits to the click-bonds
 
Apr 04, 2017     Deburring canopy braces - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Continued deburring canopy braces.
 
Apr 02, 2017     ELT doubler riveted - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Back riveted the ELT antenna doubler.


 
Apr 01, 2017     Riveted the AHRS rib - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
One thing I had put to the side for too long was riveting the AHRS rib. I used the opportunity to inspect some of the other rivets in the fuselage.
With Carol's help we got AHRS rib done. As Carol was on a roll, we changed the rivets I wasn't pleased with as well.
 
Mar 31, 2017     Primed and painted aft top skin - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed the aft top skin. Before the primer fully cured I used MEK to remove the primer where the doublers go. Later in the day I painted with Jetflex WR, the areas showing in the cabin.


 
Mar 30, 2017     Deburred the canopy braces - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Deburred the canopy braces
 
Mar 27, 2017     Primed the click-bond areas - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed the click-bond areas to cover up the exposed aluminum.


 
Mar 26, 2017     Prepping Aft Top Skin - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Deburred and de-vinyled the Aft Top Skin
 
Mar 25, 2017     Click-bond anchors - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Removed primer and installed click-bond anchors to hold conduits.
 
Mar 22, 2017     Static line - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I primed the clip I made for the static line ages ago together with the frame components. Now, I could put it permanently together. Two simple rivets, screw and nut and then, all done.

The two static ports are joined above the two in order to avoid any water ingress.


 
Mar 20, 2017     Riveted the canopy frame sides - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the canopy frame sides. Some rivets does not go in before the skin is riveted on/


 
Mar 19, 2017     Primed the canopy frame components - (4.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Primed all the drilled part from yesterday (splice plates, wedge, canopy sides and frame).
 
Mar 18, 2017     Drilled the canopy frame - (6.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Started with drilling the splice plate for the canopy frame sides. Proceeded to drill the canopy sides to the canopy frame.

Next up is splicing the two halves.
A splice plate is used to join the two cabin frame halves. In addition I also made an exact replica of the splice plate. The drilling of both to one side then allows to positioning the undrilled half and drilling it to the splice plate(s).

Ended a long day by manufacturing the C-723 wedge spacer.
 
Mar 17, 2017     Shaping the canopy frame - (2.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Spent time on shaping the canopy frame. The outboard flanges are not 90 deg as they are supposed to follow the canopy glass. Created spacers and clamped the canon and canopy frame together. Manufactured the C-613 canopy splice plates. Deburred the canopy frame sides and clamped them together with the test of the frame.
 
Mar 16, 2017     Deburring the canopy frame - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
I started deburring the canopy frame (the one matching the cabin frame. Mounted the cabin frame which with spacers is used to align the canopy frame.
 
Mar 15, 2017     Adjusted the canopy and skins for clearance - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Adjusted the canopy and skins for clearance. This is where the canopy release mechanism is very useful as it goes on and of numerous times.

I have a little pillowing on each side, apparently that is something many builders experience.
I might use a shrinker to tighten it up.


 
Mar 14, 2017     Assembled the forward structure - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Assembled the forward structure and the canopy release mechanism.
 
Mar 13, 2017     Riveting sub-structure - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Having sorted out the hinge I can now rivet the sub-structure. It is riveted together in two halves to allow for removal.
 
Mar 12, 2017     Drilling hinges - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Step 1 of the hinge drilling. Started small and used mostly step reamers to make sure there were no wandering of the hole. Finished up with deburring and press fitting the brass part.


 
Mar 12, 2017     Hinge block drilling - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I put everything in place for the drilling Step 3, that is, drilling C-618 blocks and F-745 ribs.
As I have a rotisserie, I could flip the fuselage upside down and comfortable drill from the inside.

I then inserted the new F-644, flipped the C-617 delrin blocks and drilled through the remaining hinge components. This was done with the fuselage the normal position. Access to the area was obtained by lifting the skin up.

The picture shows the resulting alignment, I will trim for the necessary clearance. Before putting the canopy skin back on and also trim that for clearance.


 
Mar 08, 2017     Hinge drilling strategy - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
After researching on other builder logs and VAF, I came up with a hybrid RV-6 drilling strategy.

1. Drill the holes in the hinge first, then they can be positioned exactly where you want them.
2. Drill a large hole in F-644 rib
3. Use the damaged ribs to hold the hinge blocks in position. They will be reversed, as the first drilling only drills through C-618 blocks and F-745 ribs, using the hinge as guide. Drilling in outboard direction.
4. Put the C-617 and new F-644 in place and drill them using the C-618 blocks, F-745 ribs and hinge as guide. Drilling in inboard direction.
The pictures are showing the setup for Step 3, but with the skin removed. Drilling will be done with skin in place to align everything, including the canopy skin.


 
Mar 04, 2017     Panel angles - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the angles for the panel.


 
Mar 03, 2017     Panel alignment - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I am getting my panel from SteinAir, but I want to make the angles now so I can rivet them om before I rivet on the decks. I will use the kit panel for now to fit the angles, Before doing so, I need to make sure the panel is positioned right as I cut of the ribs to fit 10" screens.

Holding the panel in place with and angle across, I measured from the front skin edge and made sure I had the same distance on both side. Look spot on.

SteinAir said their panel are 100% hole compatible withe the one in the kit. I hope they are right.


 
Feb 26, 2017     Re-evaluate canopy hinges - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
After conferring with builder support, I have decided to weld the holes shut and re-drill. I will however need another drilling strategy, if I repeat the previous method (as per plan), I will end up in the exact same situation.

In any case I will need a new set of substructure ribs which will take a few days to arrive. Plenty of time to research my options.
 
Feb 25, 2017     Canopy hinge drilling - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the canopy hinges. I used bushing so I could drill #40, but is was a complete failure. I can see that the full size hole will have no edge distance. I have to check out my options.


 
Feb 19, 2017     Primed decks and frame support parts - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed decks and frame support parts


 
Feb 18, 2017     Decks and F-704 covers - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Prepped the front decks


 
Feb 17, 2017     Primed and paint day - (5.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed the push rod and the rear top skin.


 
Feb 16, 2017     Test fitted the F-789 pushrod - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
I held the threaded rod ends in place with tape and test fitted the push rod. It's a bit tricky to get in place, I actually had to remove the rod end bearing to get it into position.
 
Feb 16, 2017     Deburring and prepping parts for priming - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Deburred and de-vinyled all the parts I plan to prime and paint week-end coming.
 
Feb 15, 2017     Adjusted the co-pilot stick - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I had some issues getting the co-pilot stick inserted into the control column. There are welding deposits and powder coating making the insertion impossible. It took forever to clean out the hole as the welding left large lumps.
I couldn't get it all the way in, but far enough to drill for the securing bolt.


 
Feb 14, 2017     Started the F-789 elevator pushrod - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Started the F-789 elevator pushrod. This is the smaller forward one that connects the control column to the elevator bell crank. I cut down to the dimensions from the drawings, cut a masking tape to the circumference and laid out 6 equidistance holes on that tape and started drilling.
 
Feb 13, 2017     Elevator bell crank - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Installed the elevator bell crank. Torqued and applied seal.


 
Feb 13, 2017     Vent line screws - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
I got the shorter screws from Spruce so now could finish the install of the vent line.
Shorter screws are needed for the ones going towards the side skin instead of filing down (as per plans), I got shorter ones.


 
Feb 12, 2017     Shoulder harness cable - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Installed the shoulder harness cable. The anchors cannot be installed permanently until the skin is on some of the bolts interferes withe the riveting access. I used elastics to keep them in tension and avoid them flopping around.


 
Feb 11, 2017     GMU-22 harness and static line - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Pulled the GMU-22 harness through the conduits and tucked the cables under the co-pilot seat area. I also pulled the static line out of F-704 and F-705 bulkhead. I have to wait until the skin is riveted on before installing the beefy angle in (F-705) which that static line is routed through.


 
Feb 11, 2017     Static line install and routing - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Installed the static line, at least the rear part. Tested the routing though F-705 and F-704. It's great to have the rotisserie, makes jobs like this easy. I am planning to make something to hold plastic bushings in place in the F-704 area to avoid chafing and wear/puncture of the static line.


 
Feb 08, 2017     Exit brake line - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Manufactured the brake lines from parking brake to the firewall.


 
Feb 06, 2017     Booster pump to firewall fuel line - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made the booster pump to firewall fuel line. This will be under the center channel. I used steel fitting for the firewall side.


 
Feb 04, 2017     Checking rivet head clearance. - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Checked the clearance for the longeron rivets. The pictures are from weird angles, but I think it is enough room for the manufactured rivet heads.


 
Feb 02, 2017     Painting canopy release rods and delrin bearings - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Painted the canopy release rods and delrin bearings. I used yellow rustoleum for the steel rods and Jetflex WR on the delrin. It's hard to get anything to stick on delrin, as long as it doesn't get rubbed the Jetflex WR stick surprisingly well.


 
Jan 31, 2017     Riveted panel angles - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the left panel angle and tested the panel and fuel line fit.


 
Jan 30, 2017     Latch and panel angles - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the angles for the latch mechanism and one (right) of the angles supporting the panels.


 
Jan 29, 2017     Cabin frame channel and more - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted together the frame channel and some of the sub structure components.


 
Jan 29, 2017     Center panel painting - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Painted the center panels and cabin frame channel.


 
Jan 28, 2017     Fuel line support priming - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed the parts for the fuel line clamps.


 
Jan 27, 2017     Canopy latch handle - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Made the push rod for the canopy latch handle.
 
Jan 26, 2017     Forward fuselage channel replacement - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I wasn't happy with the opening made in the forward fuselage channel, so I ordered a new one with better hole distance.


 
Jan 22, 2017     Canopy release mechanism - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Had to remake new blocks for canopy release mechanism as I mis-drilled the first set.

 
Jan 21, 2017     Canopy hinge - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued the canopy hinge mechanism


 
Jan 20, 2017     Canopy hinge - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Test fitted the canopy hinge mechanism and drilled to the sub structure.


 
Jan 19, 2017     Canopy hinge - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the canopy hinge mechanism and spacers.


 
Jan 18, 2017     Sub-pane assembly - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Clecoed together the sub panel assembly to prepare for the canopy hinge mechanism.


 
Jan 17, 2017     Fuel pump support - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the fuel pump support structure together.


 
Jan 15, 2017     Canopy latch handle - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Transferred the cut outs from the template to the side skin. A mistake here would be insanely bad.


 
Jan 15, 2017     Sub-pane assembly - (3.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Started riveting together the forward fuselage component for the substructure. Drilled for places with nutplates.
 
Jan 14, 2017     Center Channel - (4.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed the center channel and sub panel components.


 
Jan 13, 2017     Center Channel - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Bent the center channel vent opening, this is the part where air is coming through from the heat valve.
 
Jan 12, 2017     Center Channel - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Deburred the center channel parts to prepared for priming and painting.
 
Jan 11, 2017     Canopy latch handle - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued the latch handle template by drilling the angles to the templates.


 
Jan 10, 2017     Canopy latch handle - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the template for the latch handle. This allows for fully testing and assemble the handle. At the same time it is used to correctly position the mechanism on the side skin.


 
Jan 09, 2017     Static line routing - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Made clips for the static line. They will be positioned along the longerons.
 
Jan 08, 2017     Fuel line routing - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Designed a holding mechanism for the flexible fuel line and checked the fit.


 
Jan 07, 2017     Cabin frame channel - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Added a plate to the F-732F channel. Made it removable with nutplates and screws. I also plan to have cabin lights and camera mount.


 
Jan 06, 2017     Cabin frame mounting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the F-732A channel to the cabin frame and attached the frame to the angles.


 
Jan 06, 2017     Canopy latch weldments - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started fitting the canopy latch weldments


 
Jan 05, 2017     Cabin frame mounting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued fitting the frame. There are several measurements that need to match up. Then I drilled the frame to the brackets, made threads and counter sunk for the screw that secured the skin.


 
Jan 03, 2017     Cabin frame trimming - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started fitting the cabin frame and marked them for trimming. It is tilted backwards hence the rear side have to be lower. The bracket also required some rounding to clear the seat back support.


 
Jan 02, 2017     Cabin frame riveting - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued riveting the cabin frame


 
Jan 01, 2017     Cabin frame riveting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the riveting the cabin frame. One side of the joint plate is drilled to the angle, the other side is drilled in place. I used and angle to assure the correct dimensions.


 
Dec 31, 2016     Cabin frame priming - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed the cabin frame components and shoulder harness anchors.


 
Dec 30, 2016     Rudder pedals - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Picked up the anodized pedals and riveted them together. This is looking good.


 
Dec 30, 2016     Even more cabin frame - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Finished the cabin frame drilling. I used a template to assure uniform thickness along the length.


 
Dec 29, 2016     Cabin frame - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the cabin frame. Loads of measurements and clamps.


 
Dec 28, 2016     Cabin frame - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made a jig for the cabin frame to ease the clamping and drilling. Clamped down the cabin frame and started drilling.


 
Dec 28, 2016     Rudder pedal weldments - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Painted the rudder pedal and flap actuator weldments to match the interior.


 
Dec 27, 2016     Cabin frame - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the angles, joint plate and other parts for the cabin frame.


 
Dec 26, 2016     Cabin frame - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Dug out the cabin frame part and started to measure up blocks and angles to aid the assembly.
 
Dec 25, 2016     Forward fuselage ribs - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Cut off the forward fuselage ribs. As I am going for 2 x 10" screens, I have to move both inwards. I plan to use the cut-off to support the radio stack.
 
Dec 20, 2016     Rudder pedals - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Used scotchbrite to create a finishing that works well with the black anodization I plan to apply.


 
Dec 19, 2016     Rudder pedal - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Engraved numbers on the rudder pedal parts to ease the assembly.
 
Dec 18, 2016     Rudder pedal - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
More work on the pedal assembly, deburring fine adjustments.
 
Dec 17, 2016     Fuel lines       Category: Fuselage
Figuring out how to route the fuel lines. I plan to use the panel angle to clamp the flexible hoses in place. The other end have solid lines exiting the fuel selector valve.


 
Dec 17, 2016     Firewall - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Adjusted the firewall flange to improve the general fit. Marked area where adjustment were needed.


 
Dec 15, 2016     Rudder pedal - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Worked on the pedal assembly by rounding some corners. I am planning to anodize these black.


 
Dec 14, 2016     Andair replacement parts       Category: Fuselage
Received replacement parts. These were unharmed.


 
Dec 14, 2016     Disassembled the rudder/brake pedals assembly, - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
I have to disassemble the rudder/brake pedals assembly, so I took a few pictures of the spacers used.


 
Dec 13, 2016     Sub-panel - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Worked on the sub-panel structure. Drilled the angle that holds the canopy seal and the forward fuselage channel.


 
Dec 12, 2016     Fuel lines - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started measuring so I could order fuel lines from Tom Swearengen.


 
Dec 09, 2016     Cabin cover plates - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the cover plates and riveted on nutplates on the firewall recess. These are used to hold the access plate.


 
Dec 08, 2016     Cabin cover plates - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Started the cabin cover plates


 
Dec 05, 2016     Finish kit is here - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Received the finish kit. Unpacking paper, paper and a big plastic bubble. Inventory is quicker as there are fewer, but larger parts.


 
Dec 03, 2016     Fuel selector valve plate - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made a new plate for the fuel selector valve with a overhang rather than tucked in.


 
Nov 27, 2016     Sub-panel - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started drilling the sub panel. Several angles had to be shaped.


 
Nov 23, 2016     Cabin center cover - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Adjusted the fuel pump support
 
Nov 21, 2016     Cabin center cover - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the cabin center cover and the stiffener for the pump assembly. This is where the brilliant rotisserie comes in, it enables working inside at all angles without crawling around.


 
Nov 20, 2016     Cabin center cover - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Started the fuel pump support structure under cabin center cover.
 
Nov 19, 2016     S-tube for fuel selector - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made the S shaped tube from selector to filter and let it position the assembly on the cover. Since I am not using the manual trim tab, I cut that part off and tucked it behind the cover.


 
Nov 17, 2016     Fuel pump fitting - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
While I am waiting for replacements, I used the damaged parts for fitting the parts.


 
Nov 16, 2016     Fuel pump with cosmetic damage. - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Received the Andair parts. Fuel selector, fuel pump and filter. They had severe transport damage. It's cosmetic, but unacceptable, I need to call for replacements.


 
Nov 12, 2016     Fuselage cradle - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
More work on the fuselage cradle
 
Nov 09, 2016     Fuselage cradle - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
More work on the fuselage cradle
 
Nov 07, 2016     F-709 bulkhead - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the F-709 bulkhead and GMU-22 bracket.


 
Nov 05, 2016     Fuselage cradle - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started assembling the fuselage cradle.


 
Nov 03, 2016     Riveted the left baggage floor. Cabin looks done - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Just had to put it together and check the looks.


 
Nov 01, 2016     Storage space template - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Made a template for the storage inlay, just in case I want to add some padding later.


 
Oct 28, 2016     AHRS (or ELT) bracket - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Fitted and drilled the AHRS bracket I will use for the ELT thought. It also provides some stiffness to the floor which will tin canning.


 
Oct 26, 2016     Cabin nearly done - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
With all the interior painted I just had to lay it out and take some pictures.


 
Oct 23, 2016     Right floor riveting - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Vacuumed out all the crap of the fuselage and riveted on the right floor. Fitted the remaining side panels with clecos, no point using screws until first flight. Cannot rivet the left until the AHRS bracket is riveted.


 
Oct 22, 2016     Finished seat hinges - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the seat hinges.


 
Oct 21, 2016     Riveted wear blocks - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the wear blocks for the shoulder harness.


 
Oct 20, 2016     Prosealed conduits - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Added proseal to the conduits to secure them.


 
Oct 18, 2016     Break lines       Category: Fuselage
Received the break line from Tom Swearengen, great stuff.


 
Oct 18, 2016     Riveting cabin components - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted together more of the flap actuator and tunnel components.


 
Oct 18, 2016     Finished the storage space - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the storage lid in place. Looks great, me thinks.


 
Oct 16, 2016     Conduits - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the conduits anchors and inserted conduits.


 
Oct 09, 2016     Heat valve - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Started fitting the heat valve. I used a can lid and tape for centering.


 
Oct 09, 2016     Deburring and priming - (6.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Big deburring, priming and painting day.


 
Oct 08, 2016     Tunnel cover - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Measured and drilled the tunnel cover components and the flap actuator and bearing block.


 
Oct 07, 2016     Seat hinge pins - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Made pins for the seat hinges


 
Oct 06, 2016     Baggage floor and center channel - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Deburred baggage floor and adjusted some center channel parts
 
Oct 05, 2016     Conduits anchors - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
The additional conduits under the floor requires some anchor points.


 
Oct 04, 2016     Brake fluid reservoir - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
The brake fluid reservoir use the top stiffener and AN3 bolts. I also fitted the parking brake valve.


 
Oct 04, 2016     Brake lines - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
As I now had all brake component positioned, I started to measure up the lengths of the brake lines.


 
Oct 02, 2016     Stick boot rings - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the stick boot rings.


 
Oct 01, 2016     Flap actuator components - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
More work on the flap actuator housing. This involved drilling the side panels and test fitting parts.


 
Sep 28, 2016     Storage space hinge - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the hinge for the storage space lid.


 
Sep 27, 2016     New wear blocks - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made new wear block for the shoulder harness. Used black delrin so they blend in a little better.


 
Sep 26, 2016     Storage space lid - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made the lid and door jam for the storage space.


 
Sep 25, 2016     Vent lines - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Stared the vent lines by using the soft Van's supplied tubing to develop templates. I made sections that were easy to remove. I then used the section to bend one continuous line from side skin inlet to bottom skin outlet.


 
Sep 24, 2016     Flap actuator components - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the Flap Actuator channel


 
Sep 21, 2016     Seat hinges - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Cut and drilled the seat hinges to the seat panels.


 
Sep 20, 2016     Additional conduits - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made holes for extra conduits


 
Sep 19, 2016     Harness wear blocks - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the wear blocks for the shoulder harness.


 
Sep 19, 2016     Under floor storage - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Cut the baggage floor for the under floor storage space.


 
Sep 18, 2016     Elevator bell cranks and baggage bulkhead - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made the spacers for the elevator bell crank. Drilled the baggage bulkhead


 
Sep 17, 2016     Forward decks - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the decks and F-705G plates.


 
Sep 16, 2016     Replacing fuselage rivets - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Changed some rivets in the fuselage I wasn't happy with
 
Sep 14, 2016     Seats - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Drilled seatbacks
 
Sep 13, 2016     Static ports - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Inserted a static tube between the ports to avoid foreign object entering.


 
Sep 13, 2016     Fuselage gussets - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the gussets.


 
Sep 12, 2016     Seat distance plates - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started on the seats by cutting out the lightening holes for the distance plates. Fly cutter fun.


 
Sep 11, 2016     Static ports - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Installed the static ports using proseal. Held them in place with weights.


 
Sep 11, 2016     Aft fuselage top skin - (3.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Primed the aft fuselage sub structure
 
Sep 09, 2016     Aft fuselage skin - (3.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Deburred the aft fuselage skins and the supporting structures
 
Sep 08, 2016     Aft fuselage skin - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled on the aft fuselage skins


 
Sep 07, 2016     Aft fuselage skin - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Clecoed on the aft fuselage skins


 
Sep 06, 2016     Canopy sub structure - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Clecoed together the canopy sub structure.


 
Sep 05, 2016     Fuselage gussets - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the remaining fuselage gussets and the shoulder harness anchors.


 
Sep 05, 2016     Riveted the aft deck. - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the aft deck. Mostly squeezing and some bucked.


 
Sep 04, 2016     F-695 drilling - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Adjusted and drilled the F-695 Forward Fuse Gussets and the Fuselage Gusset. Started with #40, then used the step up to #30 reamer. Makes nice even holes with very little burr.


 
Sep 03, 2016     Making spacers and drilled the aft deck. - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilling the aft deck. This locks the fuselage with whatever twist you have. Hence, I checked the twist like 102,934 times. Spacers are drilled at the same time so clamps are your friend.


 
Sep 02, 2016     Checking twist - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Checking twist and adjusting before drilling the aft deck. I also took of the remaining vinyl.


 
Sep 02, 2016     Flipping the canoe ! - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
After a few last rivets, I flipped the canoe ! As I used the rotisserie, it was a one man job.>



 
Aug 30, 2016     Rotisserie assembled - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Assembled the remaining portions of the rotisserie. Getting close to flip the canoe.


 
Aug 28, 2016     Last of the fuselage riveting - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Before flipping the canoe, there is still some last (difficult) rivets to take care of, needed assistance from Carol the riveter.


 
Aug 27, 2016     Prepping for rotisserie - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Mounted the frame for the rotisserie.


 
Aug 27, 2016     Forward fuselage done - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Finished the riveting of the front fuselage.


 
Aug 24, 2016     Prepping for rotisserie - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started prepping for rotisserie by opening up the engine mount holes.


 
Aug 24, 2016     Prepping for static ports - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Removed the primer where the static ports will be prosealed on. I Macgyvered a special tool for the occasion, worked like a charm.


 
Aug 22, 2016     Testing dimensions       Category: Fuselage
Oh my ! The RV-7 fits in my garage !


 
Aug 22, 2016     Main squeeze repair - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Got replacements parts for the Main Squeeze. Not sure why they sent me a longeron yoke, I will send that back.


 
Aug 22, 2016     Armrest riveting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the armrests


 
Aug 21, 2016     Finishing center section bottom skin - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
With Carols help I finished the bottom skin riveting.


 
Aug 19, 2016     Finishing up forward fuselage - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
There are some rivets I cannot reach, I'll get Carol to help later.


 
Aug 16, 2016     Holes pitot, AOA lines       Category: Fuselage
Drilled holes for the pitot, AOA and other lines.


 
Aug 16, 2016     outboard seat ribs riveting - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Got help from Carol and finished the hard to get rivets on the forward fuselage around the seat ribs.


 
Aug 15, 2016     Looking at parts       Category: Fuselage
Sometimes a builder does nothing but staring at what has been done…..


 
Aug 15, 2016     Armrest stiffeners riveting - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the stiffeners to the armrests


 
Aug 14, 2016     Armrest painting - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Painted the armrests.
 
Aug 13, 2016     Armrest stiffeners - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Fitted stiffeners to the arm rest. They are pretty flimsy without, this and angle on each end will stiffen them up.


 
Aug 12, 2016     Armrest stiffeners - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Rounded of angles to be used as armrest stiffeners
 
Aug 11, 2016     F-711 replacement - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made new angle for the F-711 bulkhead, the old one would get enough hole distance.


 
Aug 10, 2016     Sealing Firewall - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Cleaned, applied Flamemaster and clecoed the firewall. The fuselage box is now put together forever, just some riveting left….


 
Aug 09, 2016     Lower longeron bolts - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Torqued and sealed the lower longeron bolts.


 
Aug 08, 2016     Fuselage beatification - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Removed the vinyl of portions of the fuselage to reveal all the aluminum beauty.
 
Aug 07, 2016     Firewall sealant - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
The firewall get sealed with Flamemaster. This stuff is thick, nothing like proseal.


 
Aug 06, 2016     Fuselage riveting - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued to rivet together the fuselage.


 
Aug 05, 2016     Fuselage riveting - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued to rivet together the fuselage. Some areas get bolts.


 
Aug 04, 2016     Started fuselage riveting - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Started to rivet together the fuselage. As the bottom skin is off one can easily reach all locations. Not all longerons rivets get riveted, the rear will be riveted when the top skins goes on. The lower longerons get bolts.
 
Aug 03, 2016     Fuselage assembly - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Continued the assembly of the fuselage and prepared for riveting
 
Aug 02, 2016     Countersink for double flush - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
There are a few rivets that require double flush riveting. It's basically for landing wheel weldment clearance for 7A, but it does not cost me much to do it now. It's very difficult later if ever the plane will be reconfigured. I used backing for the countersinking to avoid any travel of the bit.


 
Aug 02, 2016     Fuselage assembly - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on everything that must go on before the skin. Reassembled the fuselage and prepared for riveting


 
Jul 30, 2016     Forward fuselage riveting - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started riveting together to forward fuselage. It get started by riveting together the sub structure. Center section stiffener plate and gear attach we gets riveted on first.


 
Jul 29, 2016     Testing fit and NACA vent - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Test fitted parts and marked up area where I have to remove paint/primer as the NACA vents will get doubled on. Dimpled the side skins.


 
Jul 24, 2016     Taking a break Category: Fuselage
Going to Oshkosh 2016
 
Jul 23, 2016     Side skin dimpling and FW painting. - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Deburred the side skins and test fitted the parts. Masked the interior of the firewall for interior paint. Painted the interior of the firewall (non stainless part).


 
Jul 22, 2016     Bottom and side skin prepping - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Cleaned up the contact area on the bottom skin that touches the firewall flange. Sealant is applied here to stop engine fumes to enter the cabin. Deburred the outside of all the skins.


 
Jul 21, 2016     F-705 riveting - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the F-705 bulkhead. Some rivets are left out. These a later used for the locking mechanism and armrest.


 
Jul 19, 2016     Center section - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued riveting on the center section


 
Jul 18, 2016     Mounting outboard ribs - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Tidying up the shop after the priming and started assembling the additional center section parts. The outboard seat ribs use bolts in some places this one is for the F-705.


 
Jul 17, 2016     Longeron priming and painting - (4.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed the longerons, these are eh.... long ?
Also painted the exposed interiors portions.


 
Jul 15, 2016     F-710B angle tweak - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Adjusted the F-710B angle for a better fit with the longerons


 
Jul 14, 2016     Interior paint - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
More interior painting


 
Jul 13, 2016     Vent line - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the nutplates for the vent line on the bulkheads.


 
Jul 12, 2016     Interior paint - (3.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Interior paint for all the exposed components. No pictures, too busy painting.
 
Jul 11, 2016     Side skin masking - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Used the ribs to mark the masking areas for the interior paint.


 
Jul 10, 2016     Priming fuselage components - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed fuselage components. Including the overlap portions of the center section, bottom and side skins.


 
Jul 08, 2016     Priming fuselage components - (2.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Primed fuselage components.
 
Jul 03, 2016     Front fuselage - (2.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Separated the fuselage and continued deburring front fuselage longeron and stiffeners
 
Jul 02, 2016     Front fuselage - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Continued deburring front fuselage longeron and stiffeners
 
Jun 30, 2016     Front fuselage - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Deburring front fuselage longeron and stiffeners
 
Jun 29, 2016     Corner ribs - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Worked on the spacers for the corner ribs
 
Jun 28, 2016     Brake cylinders - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Revisited and assembled the rudder pedals and tested the brake cylinder fit. Added one long AN3 instead for two short. This will avoid any binding.
 
Jun 27, 2016     Rudder pedal support - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the support bracket for the rudder pedal assembly and made some lightening holes for weight saving.


 
Jun 26, 2016     Brake cylinders - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Test fitted the brake cylinders and pedal assembly. I am getting the Grove cylinder as they have internal return springs.


 
Jun 25, 2016     Inside job - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Some drilling is easier from the inside. Another cool picture, I think.


 
Jun 25, 2016     Rudder pedals - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started assembling and drilling the rudder pedals


 
Jun 24, 2016     Drilled replacement ribs - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the replacement corner ribs. Much better fit and hole distances.


 
Jun 19, 2016     Undressing fuselage - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
With all the adjustments, I decided to take off the side skin. Looks pretty cool with all the longerons and stiffeners.


 
Jun 17, 2016     Corner rib needs replacement - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Decided to replace the corner ribs (hole distance) and also made some spacers for both sides. Not pretty but stronger as there is no metal on metal and no void space. New ribs on order.


 
Jun 14, 2016     Corner rib tweaking - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Worked on getting a better fit of the corner rib and the conical bend.


 
Jun 13, 2016     Bottom skin fitting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Prepping the bottom skin stiffeners by drilling the first hole. The rest is match drilled to the skin.


 
Jun 10, 2016     F-717 lower longeron drilling - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilling the F-717 lower longerons to the weldment. Hole distance worked out beautifully.


 
Jun 09, 2016     F-684 gusset - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Right F-684 gusset, same procedure a for the left.


 
Jun 07, 2016     F-684 gusset - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I wasn't happy with the left F-684 gussets from Vans, so I made a new ones myself from 0.063 2024-T3 for improved hole distances.


 
Jun 04, 2016     F-902 Bulkhead - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Fitting the F-902 bulkhead. I might have to some fluting.


 
Jun 01, 2016     F-717 lower longeron fitting - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Fitting the F-717 lower longerons


 
May 30, 2016     F-719 stiffener - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
There are many stiffeners in front of the fuselage. Makes sense as the engine weight and thrust must be transferred into the fuselage. The first is the F-719 skin stiffener.


 
May 28, 2016     F-904 attach strips - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Made the F-904 attach strips. Made them oversized, I'll shorten them later.


 
May 28, 2016     Firewall - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Finished drilling the firewall flange to the side and bottom skins


 
May 26, 2016     Firewall - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
On goes the firewall and the bottom skin, it's starting to look like a fuselage.


 
May 24, 2016     Longeron drilling front - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Finished drilling the longerons to the side skins on the front portions.


 
May 23, 2016     Longeron clearance - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
I wonder if I need better clearance between F-705 and the longeron.


 
May 22, 2016     Continued longeron drilling - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued the drilling of the longeron to the side skins.


 
May 21, 2016     Started longeron drilling - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the longeron drilling started from the aft portion. I am surprised how well the longeron is following the side skin, just a little push is enough for perfect alignment.


 
May 20, 2016     Conical bend - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Conical bend done and no cracks. Secret is to polish the corner. However, I am not happy with the holes, mostly because there is a gap between the rib and the skin. I need probably need to make a spacer.


 
May 15, 2016     Longeron fine adjustment - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Not completely happy with the fit for at the center section. I spent hours and the Buller dies (they are good for gripping the angles) and get a better fit. Afterwards I just had to cleco on the side skins. Now I am ready for the conical bend.


 
May 14, 2016     Twisting longeron - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Adjusted the twist of the longerons for a better fit. I also made sure the fit in the back was OK.


 
May 14, 2016     Forward decks - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the forward decks to the longerons. Used some 0.032 scrap to get the correct overhang.


 
May 13, 2016     Longeron bending - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Bending longerons by clamping them together to avoid twist
 
May 10, 2016     Cabin floor - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Clecoed on the floor and seat panels and started to fit and match drill the outboard ribs for the center section. They will follow the bow of the fuselage so careful forming is necessary.


 
May 08, 2016     Center section riveting - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
With Carols help, I finished the center section skin


 
May 07, 2016     Center section riveting - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started riveting the center section skin.


 
May 06, 2016     Center section clecoing - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Dimpled the center section bottom skin and clecoed it on the center section. I am ready to rivet this together.


 
May 05, 2016     Seat belt anchors painting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Used grey enamel spray can paint on the seat belt points. Pretty good match to the Jetflex.


 
Apr 24, 2016     Center section riveting - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started riveting the center section together, tying together F-704 with F-705.


 
Apr 23, 2016     Tail cone storage - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
As preparation to the center section riveting, I set aside the tail cone.


 
Apr 23, 2016     Fuselage riveting - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted seat ribs to the center section


 
Apr 04, 2016     Fuselage riveting - (5.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveting fuselage. Got too busy riveting and didn't get to take pictures. Got pretty far solo riveting, used back riveting with plate on the outside supported with saw horses and wedges,


 
Apr 03, 2016     Crotch strap brackets nutplates - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted on the nutplates for the crotch strap brackets and tested fit with seat pans


 
Apr 02, 2016     Fuselage twist check - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Clecoed together the aft fuselage and checked again for twist I also made a template to show the tail spring outline from the outside.


 
Mar 30, 2016     Tail skin riveting - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started riveting the tail skin to the aft bulkheads and mounted the tail spring bracket


 
Mar 28, 2016     5 point harness - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Received the Crow 5 point harness. Laid it out on the couch, now I can be strapped in while watching cat videos.... someone come and save me.


 
Mar 28, 2016     Rudder cable fairing nutplates - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the nutplates for the rudder cable fairings


 
Mar 28, 2016     Aft bulkhead fitting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Test fitted the aft bulkhead to the tail skin. It needs some more adjustment


 
Mar 26, 2016     Misc. parts priming - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed the crotch strap brackets, bottom skin and parts for the center section


 
Mar 25, 2016     Rudder cable fairing alignment - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Revisited the rudder cable fairing. Used a long tube for aligning withe rudder cable route.
A 3/8" drill bit seems to work perfect for the alignment.


 
Mar 25, 2016     Seat rib priming - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed the seat ribs


 
Mar 22, 2016     Rudder cable fairing - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the fairings for the rudder cable


 
Mar 20, 2016     Electric Trim - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Started the electric trim assembly. Checked the trim servo travel.


 
Mar 19, 2016     Seat belt brackets - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the crotch seat belt brackets. This is so much easier to do now that after the center section is riveted.


 
Mar 18, 2016     Tail spring bracket - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Picked the tail spring bracket up from powder coating


 
Mar 18, 2016     Corner ribs straps - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Manufactured the straps for the corner ribs. They do not remotely look anything like the drawings. Most builders make them larger to get proper edge distance.


 
Mar 16, 2016     outboard seat rib fluting - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
The outboard seat ribs have to be fluted to fit the curve of the fuselage. The bottom skin holes is used for alignment.


 
Mar 16, 2016     Corner ribs - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Trimmed the corner ribs to fit and drilled them to the bottom skin. The I couldn't help myself, had to assemble more parts....


 
Mar 15, 2016     Center section assembly - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued assembly of the center section (bottom skin)


 
Mar 14, 2016     Center section assembly - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Started assembly of the center section. Marked ribs for trimming.


 
Mar 13, 2016     Seat rib tie-in spacers - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the tie-in spacers for the seat ribs


 
Mar 13, 2016     Static port drilling - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled for the static ports. Had to add some to the vans measure to make room the flange and bulkhead clearance.


 
Mar 13, 2016     F-706 riveting - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the F-706 bulkhead. Some rivets have to wait until the aft fuselage gets riveted.


 
Mar 12, 2016     Aft fuselage skin dimpled - (2.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Dimpled the aft fuselage skins and set it aside.


 
Mar 07, 2016     Started seat ribs - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the seat ribs by cutting out for the control system clearance.



 
Mar 07, 2016     New F-916C spacers - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made the F-916C spacers


 
Mar 05, 2016     Aft skin priming - (4.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Deburred and primed the aft fuselage skins and the tie-in spacers for the seat ribs


 
Mar 04, 2016     Tailwheel spring adjustment - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Opened up the hole to allow for tool access to the tailwheel spring bolt.


 
Mar 04, 2016     Checking twist - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Checked for fuselage twist. It not really set until the aft deck goes on, I just want top keep it as straight as possible. Adjusted so I got the same reading at all locations.


 
Mar 04, 2016     Tailwheel weldment wedge - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started working on a wedge to close the gap between the bulkhead and tailwheel weldment.
(Waste of time as I ended up using a flat spacer).


 
Mar 03, 2016     Aft fuselage deburring - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Removed vinyl and deburred the aft fuselage and j-channels


 
Feb 29, 2016     Aft fuselage drilling - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Finished drilling the aft fuselage. I also marked the J-channels for trimming.


 
Feb 28, 2016     Aft fuselage drilling - (4.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started drilling the aft fuselage taking care of not doubling (due to not 100% aligned) the holes in the bulkhead tabs. A piece of steel works great as drill stop.


 
Feb 27, 2016     Aft bottom skin done ? - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
I think I finally got the aft bottom skin and bulkheads fitted, so I polished the trimmed edges.


 
Feb 27, 2016     F-706 part II - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the F-706, again. I am getting good at this. The holes for the cable worked out perfect this time.


 
Feb 27, 2016     J-channel fitting - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Check for interference between j-channels and bulkheads and adjusted where necessary.


 
Feb 26, 2016     Tail skin adjustments - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
More massaging of the tail . As I now have a new bulkhead, that one needs some adjustment too.


 
Feb 25, 2016     F-711 part II - (3.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Assembled and drilled the replacement F-711 and test fitted and drilled the tailwheel weldment.


 
Feb 23, 2016     Static line routing - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled holes for the static line through F-705 parts.


 
Feb 22, 2016     J-channels - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Marked the J-channels and fitted them to the aft fuselage bulkheads and skins.


 
Feb 21, 2016     Aft fuselage assembly - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started assembly of the aft fuselage and started fitting the J-channels


 
Feb 21, 2016     F-705 deburring and priming - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Prepped the F-705 bulkhead parts for priming, it will be primed together with the new F-706 parts.


 
Feb 20, 2016     Mark cut out got tail spring - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Marked the bottom skin for tail spring cut out.


 
Feb 20, 2016     Flap actuator bearings - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the delrin bearing blocks (F-661EF) for the flap actuator weldment (WD-613-EF)


 
Feb 19, 2016     Destruction of parts - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Completely messed up the holes for cables etc. The hole wandered to far away from the intended location. I test fitted the overlapping rib and it will not work. Dammit, new parts needed again.


 
Feb 19, 2016     Spar assembly - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Test fitted the center spar section with spacers and hardware store bolts with threading removed and polished. The will be used when I mate the wings. The high tolerance bolts will not be used before final assembly.


 
Feb 19, 2016     Tail bottom skin trimming - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Marked and cut out a slot in the tail skin for the tailwheel rod.


 
Feb 19, 2016     Bulk heads to bottom skin - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the aft bulkheads to the bottom skin.


 
Feb 19, 2016     Center section assembly - (1.50 hours) Category: Fuselage
Assembled the center section and tested the spar alignment pins I made from modified hardware store bolts.
 
Feb 19, 2016     Fitting the tail bottom skin - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Test fitted the bulkheads to the tail bottom skin (F-779). Not a great fit, but better than what I see on other logs. Vans must have changed the forming process a little. I started massaging the skin and bulkhead tabs for better fit. Now I just have to bend the tabs a little to make skin contact.


 
Feb 18, 2016     Seat back angles - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the seatback angles and shims to the F-705


 
Feb 14, 2016     F-705 drilling - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled and countersunk F-705. There is also a slot for the canopy latch hooks that need some work.


 
Feb 14, 2016     Seat back angles - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
After bending the F-706K, I drilled the seatback angles and shims to the F-705


 
Feb 13, 2016     Seat belt anchors - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the seat belt anchors to F-705 and marked them for trimming.


 
Feb 13, 2016     Center section brackets - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Mounted the brackets to the center section. Fuel lines and cables are routed through these.


 
Feb 12, 2016     Continued work on the F-705. - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued work on the F-705. These beefy parts will later connect to the rear spar on the wings.
Marked the radius of the rounded end, cut and deburred.


 
Feb 11, 2016     Bulkheads done, nearly - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Completed all the bulkheads (except F-706 and F-705)


 
Feb 11, 2016     F-705 Part II - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
As I received the replacement part for the F-705, I started drilling, this time straight…
I am getting good at F-705 manufacturing.


 
Feb 11, 2016     F-706 Assembly - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Assembled and riveted the F-706 bulkhead and bell crank rib/channel


 
Feb 10, 2016     Riveted Bulkheads angles - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Continued riveting the angles to the bulkheads. Also riveted the elevator servo bracket to the bell crank rib.


 
Feb 09, 2016     Started Bulkheads angles - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started riveting the angles to the bulkheads. Some rivet will be riveted later, I thing the tail spring weldment bolts fits here somewhere.


 
Feb 08, 2016     Center Section brackets and elevator bell crank - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted nutplates on the center section bracket. These are the parts that holds panels in place and where nearly all the cables and fuel lines are routed through. Riveted the elevator bell crank assembly as well.


 
Feb 07, 2016     F-705 Bulkhead, the F-730 plate - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the F-730 plate, a central piece of the F-705 bulkhead. This ties together the bulkhead to the F-729 bell crank rib and F-728A bell crank channel.


 
Feb 07, 2016     Prepped bulkhead for priming - (1.00 hour) Category: Fuselage
Inspected all the various bulkhead parts for prober deburring and prepped them for priming.
 
Feb 07, 2016     Primed the bulkheads - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Primed the bulkheads and a bunch of other parts


 
Feb 06, 2016     Assembled elevator bell crank (F-635). - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Assembled and drilled the elevator bell crank (F-635). Pretty simple part.


 
Feb 06, 2016     Longeron bending - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Preparing for the bending longerons. The kit provided a 1:1 drawing showing the curvature of the fuselage. This is also a place where measuring 100 times and cut once is a necessity.


 
Feb 05, 2016     Elevator Servo Bracket - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the elevator servo to the bell crank rib .


 
Feb 02, 2016     Bulkhead slots for longerons - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Finally start using more than 10% of my brain capacity and actually looking at drawing before destroying aluminum parts. Figured out that the longerons must fit in the bulkheads slots.


 
Feb 01, 2016     Started F-710 Bulkhead - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
As the F-705 was messed up, I diverted my focus for more simple task, like the F-710 bulkhead. It's hard to mess that one up….


 
Feb 01, 2016     F-705 Drilling failure - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Started the F-705 bulkhead assembly and completely messed up. I need to use drill block for this, new parts ordered.


 
Feb 01, 2016     Started F-711 Bulkhead - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Moving to slightly more complicated F-711 bulkhead


 
Jan 31, 2016     Assembled F-706 Bulkhead - (1.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Manufactured the F-729C angle and assembled the connecting parts to the F-706 bulkhead. Drilled both angles to the bell crank channel (F-728). Bell crank rib and (F-729).


 
Jan 31, 2016     Started the F-706 bulkhead - (6.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Drilled the F-706 bulkhead, F729A Bell crank rib and angle.
 
Jan 30, 2016     Started the bulkheads - (5.50 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started the fuselage bulkheads


 
Jan 26, 2016     Riveted Firewall - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the firewall. Looks good with all the flush rivets forward (to ease the cleaning of oil etc.).


 
Jan 23, 2016     Started riveting the center section - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Riveted the center sections fore and aft to the F-704E center section bar. Used the NAS 1307 bolts for alignment.


 
Jan 22, 2016     Test fitted the control column - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Test fitted the control column to the F-704 bulkhead. Adjusted the bushings on both sides.


 
Jan 20, 2016     Trimmed the control column mounts - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Trimmed the control columns mounts for weight savings according to the drawings.


 
Jan 19, 2016     Drilled the control column mounts - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Measured and drilled the control columns mounts to the F-704E bulkhead. Then went ahead and marked them for trimming according to the suggestion in the plans.


 
Jan 18, 2016     Made holes for cables in center section - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Drilled the 5/8, 7/16 and 1/2 inch holes in the bulkhead parts. Deburred half of the stiffeners and formed the F-704 stiffeners.


 
Jan 17, 2016     Deburring of F-704 bulkhead parts - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Dug out the parts for the F-704 bulkhead and deburred a little.
 
Jan 17, 2016     Priming of the firewall aluminum stiffeners - (3.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
It was glorious weather, so I used the opportunity to prime the firewall parts.
Now I just have to be patient and wait a few days before riveting it together.
 
Jan 16, 2016     Deburred firewall aluminum angles - (2.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Deburred all the firewall aluminum parts. Rainy day, hoping to prime tomorrow.
I'll think I'll go to the South Texas builders lunch instead.
 
Jan 13, 2016     Got remaining fuselage parts - (0.50 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Got the few items missing from the fuselage kit from Vans


 
Jan 10, 2016     Countersunk firewall parts - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Deburred, dimpled and countersunk most of the parts. Did all #30 and half of the #40. Have about two stiffeners to go.


 
Jan 09, 2016     Brake line FW pass through stiffener - (2.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Made the brake line pass through stiffener by measuring up the two holes as per the drawings. Drilled them with #41 and clecoed in place. Then it was an easy task to drill them and the rest to #40.
Finished by using unibit to make the two 7/16 through holes.


 
Jan 09, 2016     Drilled firewall parts - (4.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Started drilling all the components to the firewall. Used double sided tape to keep the shims in place while drilling the F-601J brackets.


 
Jan 08, 2016     Started firewall - (5.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Dug out the parts for the firewall and started to deburr.

Made the F-601J angles from the AA6-187x2x2 1/2 angle stock and clecoed together the firewall as far as possible without doing any drilling.


 
Jan 06, 2016     Fuselage inventory continues - (4.00 hours) Category: Fuselage
Inventoried the sub-kits. All is there. I took some time as I was also looking at the descriptions to get an idea where they would fit.
 
Jan 05, 2016     Fuselage inventory - (3.00 hours)       Category: Fuselage
Inventoried all the bags. Missed two (1991 and 619) and had double 1990-1 and 819. I can see what happened.


 
Jan 04, 2016     Fuselage Kit Arrives - (1.00 hour)       Category: Fuselage
Took 1/2 day off from work to handle the Fuselage kit arrival. As always, impressed with how Van's is able to pack so dense. I should hire them to pack my suitcase.....


 


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