Apr 13, 2024     Elevator rebuild; Wing kit arrives! - (20 hours)       Category: Empennage

Two important shipments arrived from Vans! First, I received replacement parts for the elevators under the LCP program. Began prepping the parts and re-completing chapter 9 steps. Parts are ready for priming after dimpling and other misc steps. Will complete fuel-tank-sealant-along-rear-spar service bulletin during the rebuild. Second, received my QB wing kit (with NO LCPs)! Unpacked and inventoried parts (flaps are B.O.ed) and began constructing cradle to hold the wings. Glad to be building again! LOTS of new work to do, but trying to go slow and methodical with the elevators.

  Feb 07, 2024     Empennage kit complete! - (5 hours)       Category: Empennage

Completed all (possible) steps for my Empennage kit! Accomplished another iteration of fiberglass fairing to achieve a very tight fit with no gaps to skin! Also made some control locks—they work well for the elevator but are too weak for the rudder (but will work just fine for hangar/construction work). Disassembly and transport to hangar is next.
Trying to control frustration and disappointment with Vans over new kit shipment, replacement parts, etc. Files a bankruptcy court request to have Vans ship my QB fuse ASAP, with LCPs at original price. Awaiting replacement parts to rebuild elevators and trim tab.

Build is on hold for now! :(

  Dec 23, 2023     Fiberglass fairings complete - (40 hours)       Category: Empennage

First log entry in months. I've completed modifying, fitting and installing all the fiberglass fairings. My time estimate of 40 hours could be underestimated for all the “dos and redos” of applying and sanding resin and filler, but could be overestimated due to all the time just pondering whether fairings were “good enough” or when I might get my next kit/batch of parts. I'm very happy with final fit and finish, though I could spend many more hours pursuing perfection. I likely WILL make some more improvements while waiting for Vans, but not tracking time/effort on fiberglass any longer!

  Oct 20, 2023     Fiberglass and LCP update - (5 hours) Category: Empennage

A very slow month+ due to work, vacation, and laser cut parts (LCP) delay. After a thorough review of Vans' info and inspection of affected parts, I've decided to rebuild by elevators, but use horizontal stab, vertical stab, rudder, and tail cone/empennage 'as is'. I can find no evidence of LCP on these structures, no cracked dimples or other defects, and am comfortable that these structures are built to Van's specifications. Awaiting an update on QB wing and fuselage kits from Van's, as well as shipment of new elevator parts. All that remains for fuselage kit is fitting fiberglass parts: I ordered/received the empennage fairing and am fitting, sanding, and finishing 4 of 8 fiberglass parts (elevator/stab fairings will have to wait for the elevator rebuild).

  Sep 06, 2023     Completed Empennage Attch Ch 11 - (10 hours)       Category: Empennage

Completed installing all control surfaces per Chapter 11 instructions. Harness/wiring left for final install. Alignment and adjustments of control surfaces went very well; all tolerances and measurements met, tail straight/true, etc.

  Aug 25, 2023     Elevator/stab install - (10 hours)       Category: Empennage

Attached elevators to horizontal stab, trimmed skin and aligned elevator horns, rod end bearings, etc. Bought/made new tools including forceps and scope tool—made a huge difference for multiple install/removals of elevators. Very happy with final install, alignment, and straightness of tail.

  Aug 10, 2023     Completed top panel install - (8 hours)       Category: Empennage

Finished riveting side panels then installed top panel to close out fuselage! Thanks to Caleb Russel for bucking rivets inside of fuselage.

  Aug 04, 2023     Closing up Empennage - (25 hours)       Category: Empennage

Slow but steady progress on empennage top skins and close out. Completed bottom skin double repair fix (not required but doesn't hurt and avoids future inspection), as well as rudder cable fairing covers, and priming/prepping skins. Lots of UA trips and other travel has limited time but excited to almost be done closing out empennage!

  Jun 15, 2023     Side skins complete - (42 hours)       Category: Empennage

Completed assemble and riveting of the side skins, rudder stops, nutplates, etc. A lot more time than expected to complete skin installation/riveting; thanks to patient spouse to rivet bottom rows. Happy with skin overlap, joints, etc, but lots of scuffing with rivet gun.

  May 19, 2023     Installed bottom skin - (18 hours)       Category: Empennage

Assembled and riveted skeleton structure and aft bottom skin. Clecoed side skins and completed tailwheel/tie down assembly.