Oct 31, 2019.  Issue #4,946.  (Need a part-time contract pilot?...DFW area)

Best Halloween costume ever ...prkaye

My daughter Arya decided she wanted to be a Snowbirds pilot for Halloween this hear (her idea). Check out the costume we made! Give her 15 years and she'll be wearing the real thing!

November Wallpaper Calendar for Your Monitor ...Ed Hicks photo

(from Ed) "UK RV's taken at the Light Aircraft Association Rally, held in September."

Related: The RV-10 Sub-forum (in the VAF Forums)

Panel Status Report ...knut 9A (Berlin, Germany)

"...Not finished yet, some labels are missing, some are temporary. It's a lot of fun to play with."

Eagle's Nest Projects - McKinney Aviation Academy (TX) 10/29/2019

The camaraderie at our McKinney campus is nothing short of inspiring. Building an airplane at McKinney is truly a family affair and it's made possible by the untiring efforts of the MAA Booster Club. The booster club plans and sponsors frequent socials, educational events, and fund raisers; all with a focus on "family". The booster club also provides annual scholarships to build students. McKinney Aviation Academy ROCKS!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
** Mark your calendar for Sat, Nov.2nd - MAA Annual Fall Expo
__ 11am-3:00pm__ Free Admission__ McKinney Airport (KTKI)
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MAA Halloween Party - 2019
Theme: "Crime Scene"

Oct 30, 2019.  Issue #4,945.
  I drove out to Monk's Tuesday around lunch to eat with the usuals.  In his hangar is a new RV-8 to the field, and the armrest on the LH side aft of the throttle quad caught my attention.  I can't remember seeing this before, but I could see how this might be of benefit if you spent a lot of time on the wing in formation.  Two pics below that can be clicked for larger versions...
  Second, my hangar neighbor is selling a NEW IN BOX uAvioni tailBeacon for $100 off what he paid (it won't fit on his planes).  More info and pics.  I can vouch for its newness and the seller.
    (Need a part-time contract pilot?...DFW area)

enlarge

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Our Friend Mel Ordered a New Knee

(friends chiming in....  ;^)   )
I hope they put the hinge on the right way!

Good luck with the aftermarket parts Mel!

I suspect you will see a significant improvement in your 40-yard sprint times...

And don't forget, now's the time to add an inch or two if you want to have more stature (or see over the cowling on the Cub)....

Primed or unprimed?

My doctor told me, "I fixed your knees. You can't hurt them by doing more PT."

Put not thy faith in the weather prophets...

...For they shall not come to thy aid when the firmament riseth up to smite thee.

Not specifically RV related, but I thought I'd share. Back in the old days, weather prep for local flights frequently consisted of going outside & looking up. if it was questionable, you might take a peek at the temp/dew point. With that being said, one of the things that was hammered into me 30+ years ago was to always have an out, and be ready to use it, which is why I typically have a plan B airport in mind (not just for weather, but you get the idea). I also typically carry an Ipad with local approach plates in my bag, no matter how great the weather. Even with that said, with all the tools at our disposal now it's easy to put more faith in forecasting that ever before, but it's also easy to get burned by that if the forecast turns out to be inaccurate.

I had 3 training flights scheduled today, with the first one scheduled at 0600. Cold, but clear forecast. We got metars & TAFs for the local area at 0600 and they were showing good VFR conditions. The temp dew point was about 2 degrees apart, but it was predicted to go in the right direction as the sun came up. The TAF for both Wichita Mid-Continent and McConnel AFB predicted "Few at 7500" and visibility +6 until 1500 local, then scattered 1,200' gradually going IFR over the following few hours.

Took off in CAVU conditions and went about 10 miles east for Private pilot maneuvers, and saw that there was some ground fog in the low-lying areas, but no big deal, then I looked back west and saw a few scattered low level clouds starting to come in from the west side of Wichita. A few minutes later I looked again and saw that they were now more widespread and appeared to be heading east, where they would soon be rolling over my home airport.

I cut the lesson short and headed for home, with plan B to land at the closest airport (K3AU) if Beech field closed in before we got there. Plan C would have been to pick up a local IFR and shoot an LPV approach back into Beech or an ILS into Mid-Continent, but I can't say I'm thrilled by the idea of a precision approach potentially down to minimums in a non-FIKI airplane in widespread un-forecast weather with an OAT of 28 degrees, so plan B was going to be my out.

We landed with time to spare, but not much. 1/2 hour after I was back in the chocks, the AWOS at BEC was saying 300 BCN. 1/2 hour after that, Mid-Continent was reporting 300 Overcast, with 0.75 visibility. At 0915 local, Mid Continent issued a New TAF that predicted 400' Ceilings and 2 miles vis. Not much of a prediction since that weather had occurred an hour prior to them issuing it.

I've got around 2,500 hours total time in all sorts of conditions, but I can count on one hand the number of times the weather has closed in on me that fast. Also, I don't recall ever seeing the forecasters, especially the military ones, missing the mark so badly. I'm not complaining or criticizing them. Mostly I'm sharing all this as a reminder that weather forecasting is a prediction, not a guarantee. No matter how good the forecasting gets, sometimes there's still no substitute for just looking out the window and saying "hey what's that cloud doing out there?"
__________________
Terry Shortt

New option: Step "bullet" plugs for your RV-12/12iS ...mothership

We've put together a little kit with special "bullet" plugs that you can install in the open ends of the entry/exit step tubes on your RV-12, which will of course make it look completely awesome, potentially reduces pain involved with shin collisions, and probably adds something like 20 knots! Ok, well, at least two of those results is true. The kit includes installation instructions. Good to go for ELSA, SLSA or of course EAB applications.

Wanna Be In Kitplanes?

Push Button Start and Mag Toggle Switches

I know that this topic has been addressed before, but I'll be the first to admit that when it comes to wiring, I start scratching my head near immediately. So the searches I've done (Google and VAF) have offered some diagrams, but nothing I've been able to successfully figure out.

I have a push button start and two toggle switches (NKK S-6AL) and I'd like to wire them in such a way that with both switches up, the right mag (non-impulse coupling) grounds. I'll have two conventional mags.

From what I understand, this should be possible with the switches I have.

But as soon as I look at all of the connections on the back of these switches, my brains turn to water.

Does anybody have a kindergarten-level explanation or drawing that would help?

Thanks all

My 'About to Throw in the Towel' Entry ...cmadams52

I'm feeling you. I just destoyed most of my VS. Parts ordered and moving forward. At least I get to change my primer to something I like more. Plus, thanks to the practice, this thing will be perfect. I'm sure I will mess up something else down the line. Best wishes on your project. You've got this!

Oct 29, 2019.  Issue #4,944.
  Got off the surface Monday in the RV-6 (first time since the 16th), and oh boy did it feel good to get off the surface.  Not a long flight (.2), but enough to call the back spasm episode of '19 done and in the books.  Life is good.
  (Need a part-time contract pilot?...DFW area)

Slo Mo RV Motivation ...vid

James, Rob and Plaster were out 3-shipping and TnGing, and I got some of their take offs and landings with the iPhone on Slo Mo.  You're gonna want to watch this clip on WiFi as it's around 145MB in size.   SloMo sound takeoff vs rollout is funny.  You can really tell the diff between the FP and C/S props.

Just goofing off...'Out of Africa' it ain't.

RV-10 First Flight ...mlinnett

July and I took just over 3 years to build the RV10 quick build kit. We have a Barrett engine, Hotel Whiskey extended tanks, Anti Splat cowl flaps, airflow air conditioning , Fly LEDS lighting ,and a panel by Rob Hickman's team at advanced. Mel Asberry inspected the plane on 10/25/19 and we got it ready for the first flight on 10/26/19. Our first flight was from 5TX0 to KGLE where we met Justin Wylie in his RV10.

July and I could not have built the plane without the help of our friends and neighbors Marc Wiese, Matt Plaisier, Rick Kazubec, Joe Migis, John Watson, Bob van Duyn, Myron Nelson, Justin Wylie, Gary Zilik, and Tony Kirby.  ...

Life Update: Away Time ...TS Flightlines (our friend Tom)

As some of you know, My wife Suzanne has been battleing MBC Breast cancer since January of 2018. Some of you know what struggles those are, having lived them your selves. A bunch of you are in the medical profession and have gives advise and support for quite a while now.

In April, she had PET scan that showed dramatic healing of the damaged area in the ribs, vertebrae and other affected areas. The change in Onocologists and treatment regiment was working. So we planned and booked a trip for late October. So throughout the summer, we monitored her progress and with the blessings of her DR, started finalizing our plans. I had already booked and paid for the trip, so it was a matter of getting her ready to go.

Well in all best laid plans, some things crop up to try and spoil things. MRI of several weeks ago showed some very small cells that had migrated to the brain. FORTUNATELY, we had seen another Nerosurgeon on another, non related matter, and he suggested a procedure called Gamma Knife. You medical folks know about that. We had that procedure this past Thursday, and they said to go and have fun. Well the have fun part maybe not so much, but certainly going for an attitude adjustment.

So, we'll be gone from Tuesday OCT29 to Monday Nov 11. This is where I say not to worry. Prior planning--actually several years ago-- enabled us to merge into a Joint Venture with Aircraft Specialty, call Aircraft Specialty Flightlines. We started a 3rd production facility in Wisconsin (now in Milwaukee) that enabled me to concentrate on prototypes and other development items. For the past 18 months, most of our orders have been shipped from there, although some custom items we still do here. A seamless transition. Steve Tschurwald has been a fabulous business partner, as well as a friend, and together we set this up for the mutal benefit of ourselves, as well as our clients, YOU.

So even though I wont be in the shop, we can still process any orders that you need. ( Internet and email are wonderful!) I'll have some limited cell service, and with time differences, phone calls might be challenging, but I can certainly respond to emails and voicemails. So, fo you, there wont be any interruptions in shipping services.

Its been a long, challenging and emotional 2 years. So we're going to take 2 weeks and enjoy life, come back and refocus on things. I have to say here that Suzanne and I REALLY appreciate the emails and phone calls from those of you that knew about her issues. You have no idea what it means to have that support. And gee, alot of you are voices on the phone, or email addresses, all connected by the Experimental aircraft community. You think that you are talking to a airplane client, then the conversation changes and he or she is an Onocologist, or a Radiation Dr, or some other specialist that has given alot of advise and unconditional support. You guys know who you are. Believe it or not TOO many to actually name here--probably 20-30. And we thank you for it.

Tom and Suzanne.

My RV Weekend ...Dugaru

"...I met some fellow RVers (at least 5 were on hand) and generally had a great time.

As always, 9JA was open for business for anyone who wanted to sit in it and make airplane noises:"

My RV Weekend ...smokyray

In a word: Durango
Yup, up to CO and back, the flying collection of spare RV projects parts brought together by Divine intervention I call "The RVX" once again delivered. 1500 miles of gorgeous US ofA drifted beneath the wings and my salvaged 0360J2A was flawless.  All of NM passed under the wings in less than 2hrs....
V/R
Smokey

My RV Weekend ...crabandy

I made a quick out and back to KPIA to pick up an RV buddy after an OT shift on Friday.  much more

My RV Weekend ...Carl RV-6A

Flytoday - each day, Sat & Sun
Finished two week trip, by WN, to LAX late Friday, so flew the -6A around SE Houston on Sat and Sun afternoons. Following frontal passage on Friday the visibility was outstanding and the temps cooled nicely. Spotted my Lone Star Squadron friends, 3-ship, returning Sunday from the Reklaw fly-in, and felt the need to follow and fly-by to salute their return home.

Saturday, final to Runway 35 at KLBX

My RV Weekend ...SPX

Flew from Carlsbad, CA down to Brown Field to pick up something. Transited the San Diego VFR corridor, which even with me being used to an airplane going Mach .80, still was a busy few minutes. It was my first time through..

Left Brown Field and decided to head over to Montgomery Field to pick up a new fuel strainer and some lunch. Back through the VFR corridor again, this time on a trip only 19 NM long. The corridor drops you off about 3,000' high on a left downwind for the 28's into MYF. Fortunately with some advanced planning, the RV does just fine doing a fast descent.

After leaving Montgomery Field, it was back to Carlsbad via the coast.

Great way to spend a bit of time. Really love the RV...

Build Update ...2of5 RV-14A

I've been too busy building (and working to pay for it all) to make any updates, either here or on the blog rv14a.ca. Until today.

I finally started populating the blog with all the pictures of my progress so far, as well as some lightweight descriptions of my experiences to date.


So far, I've got the vertical stab complete and ready to rivet up to the point of leaving the rear spar (completed) off for the MD-RA inspection required here in Canada. The rudder, likewise. I will need to call my assigned inspector and ask him how far he wants me to go on the rudder so that he can inspect. In contrast to the -7 rudder I was building before, the -14 has lightening holes in the rudder spar, so he may be able to see everything enough to let me finish the entire thing. We'll see.

I've also got the horizontal stab skeleton ready to rivet together, however I've run into a stopping point. The yoke on my Main Squeeze won't work on this substructure, so I'll have to order a longeron yoke first thing tomorrow from Cleaveland. My aching biceps and shoulders may convince me to order a pneumatic squeezer while I'm at it. I did pick up a tungsten bucking bar this week, and I'm looking forward to trying it out on the VS. I even picked up a roll of hockey tape to wrap it in so I don't mar my sweet AKZO primer.

Two goofs so far, which I've described in the blog: first was trying to separate the rudder bottom rib 904A and B using sheet metal snips. The snips bent the rib flange enough to crack it ever so slightly, so I tossed that part in the scrap bin and ordered a new one. Which the USPS lost, and I had to pop for another one at no cost (thanks Vans!) but I did have to pay for 2 Day FedEx shipping. The original lost shipment did finally show up over six weeks later, which I refused and sent back to Vans.

The other goof was last night, when I discovered that I didn't countersink the HS front spar deep enough in twelve places. After I squeezed all the rivets. I guess I was a little apprehensive about taking too much metal off, but it wound up costing me time in the end. I did manage to drill out all twelve rivets with not a spot of damage. I attribute this to the practice I had disassembling an entire Cessna 140 fuselage earlier this year -- I probably drilled out over five thousand rivets. I did replace the flawed rivets, and was able to prime the new countersinks with some SEM sprayed into a cup and then dabbed on with a cotton swab. I didn't feel like mixing up some AKZO for twelve holes.

Speaking of AKZO. That stuff is great (no primer war please). And I've made a decision that some may deem foolish, but I have been priming both sides of the empennage skins. I did some searching online, and found a couple of threads here that described using AKZO on external surfaces during the build. The consensus by those in the aerospace industry was that priming externally won't really hurt anything, the finish painter will just need to wetsand and prep before shooting another coat of topcoat-compatible primer. So I will have extra time, money and energy into full prime, as well as a small weight penalty, but I'm ok with it. I probably will do my own exterior painting as I go along anyway. I'm leaning toward PPG Ford Mustang Orange Fury.

I already had the bulk of my tools from the -7 build, but I did spring for the RV-14 specific tools available from Cleaveland recently, including the modified dimple dies, the elevator bucking bar, the safety pin rivet squeezer set, and some others. I also got their substructure dimple dies for dimpling the ribs and other parts.

As winter is on the way, we had to move almost everything to the basement, where I'll continue assembly of what I have so far, then begin prepping the elevator and the tailcone. Figure that will take me to spring, when I can prime those items and finish up. Hoping to order the wing kit after the first of the year.

And finally a hint to those of you with municipal recycling programs. Not sure how it works in other places, but here in Ontario, recycling bins seem to be subsidized by the government. Meaning I can go around the corner to my local Home Hardware and pick up small bins for $3 each, large bins $6. These are heavy plastic, and much cheaper than buying Rubbermaid bins to store parts in. So I've obtained about six or seven small bins and a couple of large ones, and parts are segregated by type into these bins, i.e. E- in one set, HS- in another, then the wiring harness, cables, etc. in another, then stored on my wire bakers rack or underneath the EAA 1000 tables I'm using.

Oct 28, 2019.  Issue #4,943.
  A nice weekend in N. Texas.  The back is better each day and Suz and I had lunch with our son down at SMU on Saturday.  Hope you had a nice weekend, and if you got out and about in your RV, let us know in this thread.
  (Need a part-time contract pilot?...DFW area)
 

My RV Weekend ...Vlad

1st flight N61LD ...LD Blake of Wynne, AR

The big moment came today with a flawless first test flight. No words can describe the event.

 

Front of Air Ramp Sticks Up...JDA_BTR

Despite my best efforts the air ramp and filter holder on the left side always puckers up away from the snorkel fiberglass. Just enough that when the engine shakes at shutdown (or startup too prob) it rubs on the cowling and frets/wears. And it doesn't look right too.

So I drilled some #52 holes through it all and put in some wire to hold it down. Curious what pitfalls anyone forsees.

I suppose the cowling seal will not lay entirely flat here but it shouldn't make a big difference it's a small wire. When it puckered up it wasn't exactly laying flat anyway and I'm sure air went forward under the sandwich here as a baffle leak. This might actually be better never will know unless I get a 200 MPH fan to blow into it while I inspect it.

We Have Another Vlad!!! ...Vlad Milos (RV-10)

Hello everyone!

I just ordered my tailcone/empennage kit for RV-10 and can't wait to receive it and start my project.
I am sure there will be tons of questions from my side, so for now I read this forum and trying to remember as many things as I can

By the way I am based in Canada (British Columbia).

 

My RV Weekend (two weekends back) ...Jonathan Alvord

N122EF Weekend Skydiving trip

Our weekend was a bit of breeze! My wife had a few lectures/presentations to give in Southern California/San Fran and I had opted to stay home and told her to fly commercial. Well of course distractions happen and I received a phone call asking to bring some items down. I looked at the weather and called my hanger partner/Skydive DZ owner and he was game.

We met at the hanger in Prosser Wa (S40) at 3am, fueled up, filed flight plan and off we went. 3 hours to Sacramento (KMCC) all mostly VFR at night, and landed as the sun was starting to rise. The CA fires made for a beautiful Sunrise. Refueled and off we go to Riverside (KRAL) which was a very smooth ride until we descended down into the Ontario basin and hit some pretty moderate turbulence. All things aside another uneventful leg. Dropped off the items my wife wanted, grabbed some breakfast sandwiches and then planned the next leg.

Originally we were wanting to fly in to Perris Valley and make a couple skydives there from the big planes, but the weather gods frowned on that and after talking with the DZ decided to head to Mesquite NV (67L) where a friend of ours is a Tandem instructor and surprise him. That took us over Las Vegas at 12.5k and on flight following got to hear all the Commercial planes being held below 10K for the RV 7 flying VFR over the Class Bravo! Wahoo! We landed and were able to jump on the last load of the day for fun jumpers and pulled off a couple three-way points (started as a 6way). Got a room at the local casino and gorged ourself on the Buffett. Retired to the room and was out like a light by 7pm.

Saturday we woke up, grabbed some breakfast, played (and won) the slots and Blackjack for an hour, then headed back to the Dropzone/Airport in Mesquite where I made two jumps, and my passenger was hired for a Tandem jump while I preflighted the plane. We then were off on our way home but instead of flying direct we diverted over Zion and Bryce National Park, as well as a stop in Spanish Fork Utah to try to meet up with Mike Patney (DRACO/SCRAPPY). Unfortunately he was not there but we got to meet Ron (Mikes best friend and behind the scenes guy) who let us in the hanger to take a couple photos of the Wrecked DRACO. Sorry No photo's of SCRAPPY and we did not get to see how far along he was either. DANG IT got to keep watching You Tube for updates. Topped off the tanks again as we were going to have nearly a 30-40mph head wind to Gooding Idaho. We picked up Flight following in Provo, UT and was cleared through the SLC Class B at 8500. We landed with 30-40kt headwind in Gooding (KGNG), as the Storm clouds were passing just north and east. After leaving Gooding the sun was getting pretty low and we opted to climb over the clouds, putting us just below 12.5K, and OAT dropped to -14. In N122EF the heater can pretty much keep it warm enough for T-shirts and shorts to -2, but -14 was pretty chill. We each put on our jackets and I carry a lightweight sleeping bag on most trips that we were able to spread out over our laps and as soon as we could we descended back down to 8.5K arriving back in Prosser around 7pm last night.

pretty good for 1800mile trip in about 36 hours. Burned around 110gal of gas. and had pretty nice circle around the West!

7A Rebirthing PIREP  ...kentlik

Still working on the wing...Need another riveter for the rest.

Rear window cracks ...mwjohn63 RV-12

I just discovered some cracks in the rear window, pilot side, and looking for advice.
I'm not exactly sure of the cause, but I did drip some Loctite on this screw during the re-installation of the top canopy handle. I tried to clean it off as best I could, but in hindsight, I should have removed the screw and completely cleaned it up...now I'm paying the price. I can stop drill the obvious cracks, but not sure what I can do for the frost style cracking.
Options: should I replace the window or are there some good repair options.
Thanks, MJ

Initial contact- considering an RV-10 ...Eric P

If anybody can point me to a couple of RV-10 contacts, I would appreciate the help.

I am working on making a decision on whether to move forward with purchasing an RV-10 quick build kit and would like to speak with a couple of different individuals. I have made a couple of contacts, but wasn't able to get in direct contact with anybody that actually owns an RV-10.

So, to aid me me in my decision, I would like to view an RV-10 under construction and another completed - preferably by the owner. The need to see a completed -10 is to aid in helping my wife understand what we are looking at and that it is at least comparable to the 182 we are currently in partnership with. The under construction project is to help me visualize the scope and difficulty of the project.

I am in central California (Merced) and would be happy to travel a reasonable distance. Timing is not a huge issue yet, however I would like to have made this decision made early next year.

Thanks for your help

 

The truth about fiberglass

Look, even West Systems warns you not to mess with it:

Falcon Flight Formation Clinic 2020...Bobby "Luke" Lucroy

Falcon Flight Formation Team will be hosting a Formation Clinic April 24-26,2020 with a backup weekend of May 1-3, 2020. This clinic will be held in Temple,TX (KTPL). We know this is a ways away but wanted to get it out as time gets away and there are those that like to get things on the calendar early. There will be more details posted here at VAF as we get closer to the date.

One Year In ...Lefty37

"Can't believe its almost been a year now! My empennage is done, and I'm onto the wings. Currently working on the front and rear spars..."

UHMW Bushings ...mulde35d

So I am trying to trim the UHMW Bushings on Page 32-02 for an RV-14A and figured I would rough cut them with the band saw and final trim them with a belt sander. My belt sander is having one heck of a time trimming off the plastic and it is a pretty coarse grit (80 grit).

Is there a trick to trimming this stuff or is it just that tough?

Oct 25, 2019.  Issue #4,942.
  Wishing you and yours a happy, safe and RV-filled weekend! 
  (Need a part-time contract pilot?...DFW area)
 

My RV Weekend ...DanH

My mother lives in the Harrisburg PA area, and I live in south Alabama. As the years go by, "Mom Runs" have become more frequent, and I am very, very glad to have the RV-8.

This weekend was no different. Left Sunday afternoon, heading north through TN and KY, then along the OH-WV line into PA south of Pittsburgh, all to avoid the mess churning up the Atlantic coast. Got as far as Somerset PA and called it quits. The wind turbines on the ridges to the east were sticking up out of the clouds, a sure sign that ducking under the overcast is not an option. Did an overnight to let the weather pass, then a quick morning run into Harrisburg in plenty of time to get Mom to her first appointment.

Returned home today, 3:57 nonstop into a headwind...the usual route past Camp David, then SW down the Appalachians, clip the NW edge of the Atlanta B, then home. The RV-8 knows that one like an old horse heading for the barn.

KCXY's hangar is one of my favorite buildings. I just love old art deco hangars...and as a 5th grader, I remember standing at the fence watching my dad do T&G's in a then almost new C-152. If you're in the area (and you're a gearhead), stop and check out the hangar door. It's a one-piece panel with massive cable counterweights hanging in their own galleries.  more

Fuel Drain O-ring Quick Change Excellent Tip ...Sam Buchanan

RV Series - RV/IAC Aerobatic Competition Standings ...ronschreck

I have been involved in aerobatic competition for ten years now and in all that time my wife, Kathy only came to two or three contests with me. Boring, she said! I was the contest director for the U.S. National Aerobatic Championships this year and the preparation was a full-time job for over seven months leading up to the contest. I have always told Kathy that she would get more enjoyment out of a contest if she became involved as a volunteer. She finally relented and offered to help the contest registrar at Nationals. She loved it! She's hooked!
Two weeks after Nationals is the Mark Fullerton Memorial contest in Rome, Georgia. Kathy begs to go. You don't travel light with Kathy. Deciding what to take can be a problem.  more

Panel Planning Update ...nilberg

Here's my $3.65 (paper) version of the panel installed.  The rest of the week will be used to run through various procedures and making appropriate airplane noises.

Oct 24, 2019.  Issue #4,941.
  I'm still stuck in traffic at what I'm calling 'Backapalooza'.  The lumbar spasms are no more and I'm down to just being sore and a little cranky (a guy can only take so much Star Trek). ;^)   Definitely on the mend - ate lunch with some of the gang yesterday.  I should be back in the air in the very near future.  Life is good, but back pain really stinks. 
(Need a part-time contract pilot?...DFW area)
 

New Van's LightBox Sign Kit - Now Available!...mothership

Video / ORDER LINK / Thread

"Our latest practice kit is also a great, practical sign for your hangar, Man Cave or "I Love Me" wall. Includes all the pre-punched/pre-formed parts, hardware and lighting components needed to build the sign using your choice of rivet and fastener types to suit your style. The all-aluminum box has the Van's Aircraft logo cut out of one side, and you'll be able to build with solid rivets in flush or round-heads, or with RV-12 style pulled rivets, and finish it in your own favorite look/feel. Sufficient hardware is included to allow you to choose - Just put the rest in your airplane kit bins as spares! Builds with basic aircraft tools, which are not included."

Kid RV Motivation ...airguy

"...nothing better than a smiling kid after a ride. My little boy Collin thinks that's just about the best part of any weekend."

Quick Drain O-ring Replacement Tip ...from this thread

Awesome tip!

Pre-Order your Van's 2020 Calendar ...mothership

3rd out of 6 (Beating out two Extras and a Pitts)...Ron in his RV-8

(Jerry E)
He did some really beautiful flying! We only got two flights in, the Known and the Free programs due to weather cutting the contest short. It's too bad because the Unknown program is a hoot. It'll make you or break you!

Ron came in 3rd overall out of 6 with a 76.16% beating out two Extras and a Pitts. His individual flights were 3rd and 4th for the Known and Free programs respectively. He earned a 3rd place medal for the Known and a 3rd place medal for the overall standing.

Ron will be updating the RV series leader board soon. He was the only RV competing in this contest. Come and join us next time!

Van's Aircraft's Greg Hughes on EAA's The Green Dot podcast

This has become one of my favorite podcasts. The most recent episode features an interview with Greg Hughes, the Director of Media, Marketing, and Community for Van's Aircraft.

Oct 23, 2019.  Issue #4,940.
  You know those days when you're wondering what the top story should be on the site?  Today was not one of those days <g>.  Colin, that pic of your daughter in the plane is awesome!  Outstanding!!!  (Need a part-time contract pilot?...DFW area)
 

My RV Weekend ...Colin P. RV-6A

I got to take my daughter for her first GA flight and her first flight in the RV. She was also my first passenger. We did a breakfast run about 25min away, but ended up taking the long way since she was having fun. She really enjoyed steep turns and other mild maneuvers.

N741BN - Panel Review ...nilberg

Here's my two panel options:

Option 1: With Compass
As I need a 2 1/2 opening for the EI Commander, I was thinking of also have another 2 1/2 instrument, why not a compass..  continue

Loose Intake Hose Clamps ...Jim

I pulled the cowling yesterday while chasing some wires, and I found that three of the eight clamps on the intake hoses were pretty loose. Each intake hose has two different kinds of clamps; the inner clamps closest to the sump have wing type screws that you can turn with your fingers. The outer clamps have hex/slotted screws. Only the inner clamps with the wing screws have become loose.

I am thinking I should replace the wing screw clamps with hex type clamps. Seems like I could tighten them down quite a bit more. Maybe that's why they are coming loose?   Q: Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance!

A: (rvbuilder2002)
The problem is that the hoses are always shrinking.... so what ever traditional clamp you installed will keep getting loose because of the hose shrinkage. It is not because the clamps are loosening.
Constant tension spring clamps are the way to go.  If you upgrade to the SDS intake kit you get spring clamps with it.

Final Report Issued ...20 page PDF

"(KRviator) Long landing and no go around resulted in an overrun. OF note, it mentions the buckling behind the cockpit that seems to be typical of rapid deceleration in RV's - at least in Australia..."

My RV Weekend (Sortof) ...Jerry Esquenazi RV-8

Nothing RV for me this weekend, well sort of. I just wanted to follow up on my post from last weekend regarding the Bear Creek Bash, Mark Fullerton Memorial Contest in Rome GA this past weekend.

Bill McLean came up in his RV-4 from southern Alabama to support the contest and hang out with his acro buddies and Ron Schreck came in his beautiful RV-8 from the Charlotte area to compete with me and others in Intermediate.

Like I said last week, I got to fly a gorgeous Extra 330LX that my friend Shaun let me fly. I'm a changed man! I need an Extra. I've been looking for a potential partner in the S. Atlanta metro area, but so far I haven't had much luck. Please let me know if you know of anyone that might be interested.

Ron did a great job, finishing 3rd out of 6. I finished dead last, but not by much! I didn't expect to do well since I haven't competed since April or done any real practice. Plus I had a grand total of four flights in the Extra prior to the contest. The Extra is a different animal and it's going to take some getting used to. It was a great opportunity to compete in the Extra and that's really what it was about for me regarding this contest.

And as always, it is more about seeing and having fun with friends. I'm going to paraphrase, but Mark used to say, "If you're here for the trophy, you're doing it wrong. It's about the people and the relationships you forge." If it hadn't been for the RV and for friends like Ron, I may not have ever gotten involved in this wonderful sport and gotten to fly an airplane like the Extra. Thank you Shaun. Thank you Ron.

A Really Nice Pic of Jeff R's Panel

I have my G5 high and in the middle. I figure that if it is truly operating as a backup, I don't want my eyes searching too far from the center of the windscreen during a high stress situation.

Oct 22, 2019.  Issue #4,939.
  You may have heard about the Dallas tornado Sunday night (story).  Image below facing SW towards Love Field - you can see the tornado path from upper right to bottom center.  EF-3 with 140mph winds....largest tornado in Dallas county in 40 years.  The pics online are heartbreaking and our thoughts and prayers go out to those affected.
  (Need a part-time contract pilot?...DFW area)

click to enlarge

My RV Weekend ...several chime in.

(Tom023)
Flew my RV14A 5.7 hours making two laps around Houston for continued engine break in and Phase 1.  I'm completely amazed at how good the G3X is ... everything working perfectly. How did I ever live without traffic and an AP? Awesome avionics for an even more impressive plane.

(Steve Melton)
Put-In-Bay Ohio.  Yes, Ohio has an island. very good weather.  ...

(Geoff McHarg)
Flew to Kansas City
Flew out from Colorado Springs to KC on Friday. I had a great time with my friends on Friday and Saturday. Flew back Sunday. Strong headwinds the entire way combined with mist in the morning made for a long flight back. All in all a great trip. Another friend of mine drove from Denver to the same get-together. 10 hours one way. Much better in the RV, even with the wind!

(Bobby Hester)
KHVC - KDXE Hopkinsville,KY - Dexter, MO.  My buddy David and I flew to Dexter for breakfast.  ...

(jeffkersey)
Big South Fork Airpark
Took a young man that rents from me on his first GA experience. We flew over to Big South Fork Airpark in the hills of TN for a Seafood boil.

Beautiful fly-in community with awesome residents. Just outside the gates of a 5500ft, paved, lit runway with 3 approaches. Super nice. There are RV's on th field. If you have not been, it is worth checking out.

I think I may have lit flame for this young man to learn to fly. He seemed to really enjoy himself. He got quite the experience for a first time out. I let him hand fly most of the way there and we were in IMC the whole way home and had to shoot an approach.

Love my little airplane and what it can do.

RV-12iS Oil Cooler Winterization Kit - now available...mothership

Just in time for winter weather, we have published a Notification Letter for RV-12iS builders/owners outlining a new optional kit that allows you to block off part of the oil cooler for cold weather operation purposes. A new KAI section, 55iS-U, covers the installation of the winterization kit.

Three different-sized oil cooler covers are provided, and we recommend installing the FF-00126A (small) cover first and monitor how it impacts the oil temperature of your aircraft during normal operation. Oil temperature above 230*F (110*C) is acceptable during full-power climb-out. Do not exceed 248*F (120*C). If your oil temperature remains below 180*F (82*C) during normal cruise flight install the next larger oil cooler cover and monitor oil temperature.

Please review the notification post on the Van's web site service info page HERE.

Milestone: John Tower RV-6A First Flight ...mothership

Wiring Update ...jcarney

Wiring continues. I made some good progress this weekend for sure. I still have many many wire ends that need a proper home but this was a big one.  I'm hoping tomorrow I can make a rather large dent in the two Dynon main harnesses.

Petit Jean Pictures ...Bobby Hester

This Weekend ...goatflieg

Got the elevators and trim tab painted. This was harder than expected due to a few spots of odd spiderweb-like sharp-edged ridges that popped up in the primer that went unnoticed until I shot the first color coats. I suspect some contamination either below the wash primer; some consultation with Sherwin-Williams is in order as I definitely don't want that happening again. Got them sanded down, reshot the color and then the clear coat. Now I can break down the booth and get the fuselage, with the very expensive engine and avionics, back over to the heated shop for the winter.

Oct 21, 2019.  Issue #4,938.
  A very nice weekend here in N. Texas - hope the same where you are.  The Alliance Airshow was held locally (perfect Wx).  On Friday some of the usual suspects did our annual pre-airshow lunch on the outside porch at Schlotzsky's across the street from the airport during practice (caught the F-22 demo, Blues and new Bell V-280 in flight).  Not too shabby for the price of a sandwich (pic of Blues from porch).  Saturday I picked up something the wrong way and spent the evening and Sunday dealing with lower lumbar muscle spasms.  Dang body...it's been a few years since the last back hiccup (Turbo sent me a book on this last time and it helped immensely.  Thanks again Turbo!).  We have this massager that looks like E.T.'s head (we've called it 'E.T.' for decades) and it has helped a lot.  Feeling better by the hour.  Aging blows.
  Lots of RV news today to report, so let's get on with it.  Have a great Monday.
  (Need a part-time contract pilot?...DFW area)
 

Milestone: Officially an Airplane! ...Roo747

After 8 years and 8 months

RV Stories: Mike Dooley ...mothership vid.

Mike is from Lee's Summit, Missouri and is president of local EAA chapter there - Chapter 91. He recently completed - and has since flown for the first time - his RV-8! This is his RV story.

Video: RV-8 and the Bremerton Run ...ArlingtonRV

Saturday 10/12/19 was a day that turned out better than forecast. There was supposed to be increasing rain later in the day and otherwise cloudy, but the clouds were at least 8,000' in most places. The radar picture (ForeFlight) showed abundant showers in the area, but it appeared that most of them did not make it to the ground.

Not wanting to go too far afield in case the weather deteriorated faster than forecast (it didn't) we went to Bremerton for lunch. After all, we will only have a few more opportunities to do so as the restaurant is closing at the end of the year.  more

JDair Canopy Latch PIREP ...mulde35d

I ended up installing the JDair Canopy Latch in my RV-14A today and figured I would share the experience. Overall I think it is a great upgrade from the stock Van's handle which as others have mentioned seems flimsy. This one is definitely not flimsy. Took about 2.5 hours to modify the side skin rivet line and file out the holes for the handle. Most of that was my slow filing of the two main holes with a hand file so that I got the spacing just right.  more

Did the 40th anniversary of my 40th Birthday flight ...RONSIM

Great day after the nasty weather got out of Florida --- an RNAV 3 and ILS 9 at KBKV, rolls and maneuvers on the way back to KCLW. (Hope Heaven has a hangar for my RV, when I get there!

Ron

"I'm On My Way" ...the trilogy!

I finished the last of three videos today and like to share with you.
I also modified the first one some time ago so will post the link also.

So - here are the links of all three videos again.

I watched the videos many many times myself and I always enjoyed the memories very much - and still do!

Carb Enigma ...hcccs

I took my carb apart for a thorough cleaning and check and found a hole in the throttle throat I haven't seen before. I think I read about it in the Marvel Schebler handbook and they call it the BACK-SUCTION TYPE ENRICHMENT SYSTEM. The hole (fig 1) goes through the carb to the bottom (fig 3) and is exposed to atmospheric pressure. It also has a vent to the fuel chamber (fig 2). The hole should create some under-pressure at various throttle settings which should be fed to the fuel chamber. On the other hand the bottom hole is always exposed to atmospheric pressure so it doesn't add up. Does anyone have better knowledge on this?  more

New Panel in my RV-8 ...Westerhuis

A move to the UK triggered the need for a few changes to my panel. The European Union requires am 8.33kHz radio, Mode-S transponder would be great and I also needed a back-up instrument for airspeed, altitude and direction. Garmin conveniently (not) changes dimensions when bringing new equipment on the market and there you have it; the need for a totally new panel. As an advantage, it meant I could make a few other tweaks to customize the panel to my needs. Here is the result. In a way a shame as it's more cluttered as the previous owner and builder kept it tidy and minimalist.

Photos from Mojave Event ...Bruce Hill

It was a beautiful day for flying and the air was nice and smooth and calm, so my wife and I decided to head to Mojave and have breakfast there and look at all of the Rutan aircraft.

I want to build an RV-14A in my basement...

Luckily it is a walkout basement.

The doorway is 70" wide. Can anyone check their plans or built airplane and tell me if the fuse on the gear would fit through a 70" opening? My wife is a pretty tolerant woman, but she might not appreciate it if I have to demo part of the foundation to get my project out.

On a separate and unrelated topic, Van's quoted me about $2000 to ship the QB kit from Oregon to Virginia. I was considering picking it up and driving cross country with it to save costs. Good idea?

Thanks,

Bruce

On That Note  ...DoctorDan

I am building my RV-14A in my basement, which has a considerably smaller door than yours. It's about 58.5" wide when open, and I was able to fit a QB fuselage in. Albeit not with a lot of space on the side. Basement has a lot of advantages such as being climate controlled and much closer by than the hangar. I make a lot of aluminum dust but am careful to vacuum it up, and wear a mask as needed. The priming takes place in the garage out back (P60G2).

Oct 18, 2019.  Issue #4,937.
  In line with my lifelong quest to keep the process of digestion going, I'm casting out the net a bit to see if there are any part time commercial flying jobs in the DFW area I can use to supplement my VAF gig.  So, if you or someone you know needs/wants a right seater in a King Air 200, PC-12, Citation II or similar, or knows somebody with a Caravan (C208) that could use another PIC on the list of people to call in a pinch....I'm looking for some side work. 1,700 hours. Commercial. Airplane Single and Multi Land; Instrument. 100 hrs turbine. Current in the Caravan.
  I clean up fairly well and will laugh at your jokes, even if I don't get them. Resume and letters of recommendation upon request. (contact)
  Next, if you are RVating in the N.Texas area this weekend, there is a TFR for the Alliance Airport airshow.
  Wishing you and yours a happy, safe and RV-filled weekend.
  (Need a DFW-based part time contract pilot?)

Right Place Right Time ...dr

My buddy James Walsh took his RV-4 over to Alliance Airport Wednesday morning to visit a friend in the tower (James was an air traffic controller in the Navy).  While he was in the tower Blue Angel #7 landed (in advance of the weekend's show).  Taxied up to the tower....and parked next to James' plane.

Turns out James took his parking space.  It happens...

James Walsh photo.

My RV Weekend ...jpowell13

Partied with Aunt Willodean
Aunt Willodean just turned 95. Was able to hop in the RV and fly from Baton Rouge to Laurel, Ms in 1.2 hrs. Made her cry when she heard I was coming. So glad I went and that the RV made it easy. She loves to brag about her nephew that built his own plane and all the trips we made together in it. John

RV-3B Build Update ...David Paul

David Howe, my mentor, sent me some test coupons to glue and rivet to see if my glue process works on top of the white Stewart Ekopoxy primer. Note that I'm not bonding to the primer at this time and haven't bonded to primer on anything on the plane. This was just for interest, that and to compare to both rattle can SEM and Azko Nobel. Azko Nobel will carry a bonded joint, but SEM won't.

One test sample broke at 1,510 pounds, and the other two broke at about 1,400 pounds. Those two failed at a point away from the bonded/riveted joint. The three rivets alone are only good for 651 pounds per MIL-HDBK-5H, so this process adds substantial strength to the joint.

In this photo, the test coupon itself, not the joint, failed at over twice the load that the rivets alone, sans glue, is rated for. Looking at the rivet heads, it appears as if the rivets are virtually unaffected. The side clamp is there just as a support to hold the assembly in position for the photo.

The test samples were designed to resemble typical RV-3 riveted joints with the inclusion of glue, and this time, the white Ekopoxy primer. Before shooting the primer, the samples were abraded in the bond area, and then etched using Stewart EkoEtch before priming. After the primer was completely dry, it was glued using West System's thickened G/flex.

This testing was done to assess whether this primer could be used overall, with post-priming glueing. While it could, it would require pre-abrading the parts before the etching and priming.

A later series of tests essentially compared 3M's 2216 to G/flex. The 2216 is a stronger epoxy but that's all I can say at this time.  ...

Panel concept review (very rough draft) try 2 ...rmartingt

Although I'm probably a year to a year and a half from really needing to have it set in stone, I figured I probably need to start at least playing with panel concepts now so that I have the time to refine the layout, translate it into Catia, and lay out cut templates and break the panel into parts as necessary for manufacturing and maintenance. It'll also help me better visualize wire routing needs as I'm starting to lay in conduit and figure out where to mount the fuse panels (as those will be going in a little sooner).

With that said, I recently spent a particularly slow morning futzing about in Powerpoint (yes, Powerpoint... it's quick and easy for simple concept creation) and tried to figure out how to pack 12 pounds of stuff into a 10 pound bag. I wound up with about four different layouts and a few minor variations thereof; I screenshotted my two favorites of the bunch so far and theyre posted below. I was hoping to get some early feedback before I've gone down the road of detailed CAD drawings with cutouts and split panel sections, only to be overwhelmed with suggestions to change everything...

Please bear in mind--these are Very Rough Drafts, maybe one step beyond a napkin sketch. Again, I did them in Powerpoint one afternoon. Think about your first time with MS Paint or colored pencils and the outline drawings, planning your paint scheme... please ignore slightly uneven spacing or misalignment of switches, this is a draft. I'll work on precise alignment once I move to laying things out in Catia for cutting.

A few notes on the concept:

I intend for the aircraft to eventually be IFR equipped and to get my rating in it.

I haven't actually yet decided on Classic vs HDX; I have experience with the former and like it (single screen VFR implementation), but the latter I only played with at Oshkosh a couple years ago and found the Classic habits hard to break. I don't like that the knobs don't work like sticks; I found the interface a bit harder to use. But HDX keeps getting new features...

This concept is for the eventual full panel--it's likely that I won't have everything all there initially ("fitted for but not with" as the saying goes). IFR GPS, Com 2, standby EFIS (GRT Mini), and/or RH screen may be just cutouts with blanking panels at first flight. But the RH screen will make it in first, as most of my likely right seaters will at least know what they're looking at and be useful with it.

Switches are assumed to be TL toggles unless noted in yellow. Dashed rectangle is width for dual-pole switch.

As regards placement, the hard part is trying to pack in the knob and AP boxes (must-haves; driving autopilot through the screen itself is pain) with everything else. The SDS programmer (3.25x3.25 for the new one right now, per one of Ross's posts) takes up a fair bit of room too.

In both concepts, I placed the autopilot controls top and center like heavy iron; both occupants can reach and use it there. I looked at placing it somewhat towards the LH screen, but I still wanted to keep it to the right of the screen somewhere. I don't want to have to take my flying hand off the stick to twist knobs. The right seater can use the EFIS if need be.

In the first concept, Com 2 is the radio all the way to the left, with the intercom. It won't be used much and (as currently planned anyway) the right seater won't be able to talk on it. PTT for Com 2 on the throttle; I'm envisioning it mainly being used for inter-flight com for formation work, or just monitoring/ATIS/etc. But my bias may be from the type of flying I've done in the past; I have a good bit of formation time for someone with relatively low hours but little cross-country time and no IFR training (yet).

Second concept moves the radios to the center and puts the SDS programmer to the left, where it's out of the way (it won't be used much after initial testing).

I grouped all of the engine switches in the center, by the quadrant, so all the engine stuff is together. I haven't yet decided how to break the panel down for maintenance (I like Carl F's master disconnect idea) but one possibility is having the quadrant and engine controls separate from the rest of the panel. They won't share a disconnect with anything else and they're powered off a separate fuse block. Rest of the commonly-used switches to the left; the rarely-used stuff to the right. Flaps may or may not move to the stick, I haven't decided that one yet.

USB 5V outlets are crammed where nothing else would fit, but I could easily move those elsewhere, perhaps even to the armrest area or something else.

I know which switches are dual vs single pole, 2 vs 3 position, momentary, etc. but I have not noted it in the picture. I know someone will ask; the main and aux master are off-bat-alt.

With all of that said... thoughts?

First Flights Added to the Mothership

Oct 17, 2019.  Issue #4,936.
  Heads up N. Texas.  VIP TFRs are hot Thursday (map).  Beginning Date and Time : October 17, 2019 at 1715 UTC.  Ending Date and Time: October 18, 2019 at 0345 UTC
 

My RV Weekend ...RV8Squaz

As before my RV weekend started early and continues into Monday!

Thursday
I haven't been using my RV in competition due to canopy problems. My friend Shaun asked if I was going to the Rome contest next week (10/18-19). And I said I was going to volunteer but not fly. He made me an offer I couldn't refuse, "You wanna use my Extra?" "Well, sure!" The problem is that one doesn't just jump into a machine like that and expect to fly it safely in a contest, much less with any kind of precision. He must of seen the look on my face. Then came, "We'll get you a few training flights. You'll be good." Fortunately, IAC rules allow safety pilots to ride with contestants when the contestants aren't qualified in a particular aircraft. Per the FAA - I'm qualified, the insurance company - no, and me - big fat HECK NO!

Shaun's airplane is an Extra 330LX previously owned by Patty Wagstaff. So, Thursday, I flew my RV-8 up to Habersham Co. (AJR), 85 nm. We flew two 40 minute flights with a couple of very short 1-3 minute breaks during each flight. I was beat. Forget the wet noodle, I felt like a noodle that had been boiled for two hours and beginning to fall apart!

Thank you Shaun!  ...

PJ Pics ...scrollF4 post

Two weddings and half a country ...Planecrazy232

A Texas wedding, a Massachusetts wedding, and lots of friends in between. 4300 miles, 11 stops and 29.5hrs in our time machine. I love this thing.  ...

Night flying Chicago ...jjbardell

The wife and I flew to BBQ at Lancing Regional. Took the city lakeshore route on both legs and the picture taking with my new iPhone 11 Pro were great. Also added from a sunset flight earlier in the week.  ...

Great Excuse for Missing Petit Jean ...and wonderful life milestone!

(DanH)
Ms. Patti and I are sorry we missed PJ, but we had a good excuse. May I present Mrs. Katherine Horton Haynes...with umbrella. The crud at PJ on Friday arrived in Alabama on Saturday. Not a good day for a garden wedding, but wonderful otherwise.

RV Series - RV/IAC Aerobatic Competition Standings

Sorry to be so late in posting this. I was honored to serve as the Contest Director for the U.S. National Aerobatic Championships in Salina, Kansas during the last week of September. This was the premier Nationals in Salina and due to the tremendous support of a very capable staff of volunteers and the support of a very welcoming airport and community the event was a great success! I had hoped that more RV pilots would compete but Oliver Spatscheck made the trip and finished with a score of 76.29% and a 17th place in a field of 24 in the Sportsman category. Oliver, I hope you had a great time and that you will share your impressions of the experience at Nationals with us. It's always a pleasure to spend some time at contests with Oliver. His enthusiasm for aerobatics is evident and his skills keep getting better with each competition.

Kathy and I drove our motor home to Salina from North Carolina and continued to Colorado after the contest in order to attend the 50th reunion of my Air Force Academy class of 1969. I tell people that and rather than asking me if it was a great reunion they immediately say "wow, you're old!"
Yes, I am and it was a great reunion. You youngsters fly safe... and inverted.

Odd leak from valve cap....moosepileit

I cross threaded a tube stem 30 hours ago. The valve cap on the left, with less rubber seal in it, caused a leak. It would thread on 4 turns. The replacement cap, on the right, from a spare tube, threads on 2.5 turns.

The cap on the left held air for 30 hours and more than 50 taxi, takeoff and landings.

Checked tire, tube, wheel, no issues.

Inflated to 40#, removed cap several times and heard a faint sizzle of air.

The cap on the left held air, until it didn't.

So, if you've ever cross threaded and fixed tube stem threads, check that your cap looks like the one on the right and doesn't thread on too many turns.

A few gorgeous RV-4 panel pics from a thread

Strange combination of issues

Our RV-10 has been working great for 2 years.

The system is EarthX PC680, Recently replaced main contactor (from ACS), Plane power 60a alternator, VP-X Pro, Garmin GTN650, GTR20 Remote Radio, Dual GDU460 (G3X).

The issue was first reported as BOTH COM radios getting X'd out. When I fired the plane up (engine off), COM2 was faulted with a "short circuit" but I reset it and it was fine. I could not replicate any issues. The last person who flew the plane had the radios get X'd out around the time of being handed off to departure.

After starting the plane, everything seemed okay until I tried to taxi. Advancing the throttles causes the amp reading on the VP-X screen to increase dramatically and then it cuts them both out with "short circuit".

Here's a video. https://youtu.be/q11zGFy63vU

One thing I notice right away, is that the system voltage finally gets up to 13.8 only as the engine finally hits over 1700rpm. In the past it would hit 14.1 at nearly idle RPM. NOTE: The data here is at 1 second intervals, before anything has time to go wonky. It's just an example of the lower than previous voltages.

At first this seems like belt slippage, voltage regulator, or alternator failure. But the Coms shorting out has me completely thrown for a loop. Thoughts?

DID YOU KNOW insurance is forever changing? ...LRingeisen

(VAF Advertiser)
Insurance changes constantly. We know 2019 has been a tough year for all of us adjusting to the higher premiums and tighter insurance guidelines, but we want to continue to keep you informed of some of the changes we have been made aware of. A couple of things we have noticed lately is that deductibles are starting to reappear. This isn't to lower rates, but instead to make the insurance companies more comfortable insuring low time pilots, specifically on tailwheel aircraft. We haven't seen much of this yet, but it has happened. Another thing we've noticed is that the RV-8/RV-8A have been getting more difficult to insure. Companies typically want to see pilots with at least 25 hours in the make and model. We're not saying that you can't get a quote if you have less hours than that, but we want you to know that it is easier if you do.

We're not the only one's trying to help you. Some of our insurance companies want to give you some tips and tricks of how to keep insurance costs down and how to make it easier to get the best policy available. Below is a link form Global Aerospace. With their permission, we wanted to pass this article along to anyone who may not have seen it. There is some good information in it.

Just remember, quotes are only valid for 60-90 days depending on the insurance company, because insurance is forever changing

Oct 16, 2019.  Issue #4,935.

First Flight ...Steven Hild RV-7

Well, the math don't lie, it's been 18 years since we began this journey.

During all of it I've leaned heavily on this web site for ideas, procedures, traps, etc. A couple of names stand out; Doug Reeves for hosting, Sharpie, Kahuna (still owe him a root beer), Bruce Hill, Richard Leonardo for suggesting I look into the product, the list goes on and on.

Of course my wife who has been in there at every step in every aspect getting down and dirty. And my Lord who said I'll supply everything you need to make this happen (1 Timothy 6:17).

A little adjustment for a heavy right aileron and let the adventure begin.

Watch that second one to the end for some bonus material.  see videos / continue

RV-8 and the Richland Run ...Steve Rush

Friday 10/11/19 was a really nice day in the Northwest. We were between rain systems, the air was smooth, calm, and clear. The winds aloft were forecast to be light making it a perfect day to head over the mountains. It was very smooth the whole trip, even right up against the mountains.

We did hit a few bumps right over the Hanford Nuclear Reservation, probably no big deal. I just can't figure out what that glow around the wings was.

On the way home we flew over Grant County Airport in Moses Lake, one of several places that Boeing is parking the 737 Max's that they can't deliver. You hear on the news and read about all of the airplanes parked, but until you see them it doesn't really sink in. That is a lot of airplanes. I counted at least 130, maybe as many as 150.

Vettermans trombone exhaust has arrived!! ...dwranda

Any tips would be helpful!
Yesterday my Vettermans trombone exhaust arrived. If anyone has any tips or gotchas they would like to share on the install I would be all ears!!

Garmin G3X (GDU 37X) V12.00, Oct. 15, 2019

Hello,

We released new G3X V12.00 software for GDU 370/375 based systems today. While most of the changes are improvements that the user will not notice, there are a couple of new/improved features to mention.

Earlier this year we announced 3 new IFR navigators. The GPS 175 GPS, GNC 355 GPS with COM radio, and GNX 375 GPS with ADS-B Out Transponder.

While both G3X and G3X Touch systems supported the GPS navigation interface to these new navigators from the start, the G3X system has not had a configuration option to allow the GNX 375 to be selected as the aircraft transponder on the transponder configuration page. This is now available.

Another new feature of V12.00 is increased G5 flight display support. While the G5 has for some time displayed the lateral/vertical navigation data for external navigators like GNS and GTN, in a G3X system the G5 did not show navigation data when the G3X internal GPS navigation was being used, but does now. Additionally, when serial interfaced NAV radios like the SL 30 and GNC 255 are being used, this data is also shown on the G5 flight display.

To obtain the free download for G3X V12.00, visit the G3X software download page.

Thanks,
Steve

Changes made from version 11.80 to 12.00:

• Add support for GNX 375 transponder interface
• Add ability to share internal GPS navigation data with G5
• Add support for Kavlico P4055-5020 pressure sensors
• Add support for UMA 1EU50A manifold pressure sensor
• Add Autopilot PFT (pre-flight testing) status display
• Improve traffic data processing
• Improve static pressure calibration procedure for GSU 25C/D
• Improve CO detector CAS messages
• Change flight director VOR, LOC, and GS modes to operate without navigation database
• Update magnetic table
• General improvements to system operation
• Includes update to G5 software version 6.30
• Includes update to GAD13 software version 2.00
• Includes update to GAD29 software version 3.20
• Includes update to GEA24 software version 3.60
• Includes update to GSA28 software version 4.40
• Includes update to GSU25 software version 3.90
• Includes update to GSU25C/D software version 2.10

My RV Weekend ...goatflieg

I got some painting done.... horizontal stabilizer is finished.

Oct 15, 2019.  Issue #4,934.

Italian Milano special Airshow 2019

...lucaperazzolli pics in Italy

My RV Weekend ...various

(Rod Woodard)
I installed new brake linings because I discovered one was wearing unevenly. I think the slider pins were hanging up on that side. Didn't want to replace one without doing all of them. At $35 for an entire set, it wasn't worth saving $22.50 to have the overall wear out of sync with the rest of them.

Also installed a new Flyboy's pneumatic tailwheel. Haven't had a chance to fly it, but it sure looks pretty.
 

(Eddie P)
I had to work this weekend.  So, I flew to work in my RV-8.  1 hour and 5 minutes of bliss and I watched the cars crawling along the road en route I'll fly home from work in a couple days. 

Like a lot of people say, an RV is a time machine.

(Jon Farley)
Chile Flight
Video 1 / Video 2

Albuquerque's Chile Flight had a busy International Balloon Fiesta week, flying both Saturday opening ceremonies. During the week, FFI evaluations and check rides were administered to some of the members by Craig "2B" Wilcox (RV8) and Phillip "Ripper" Lamb (RV4)of KC Flight, both of whom joined us for the 12 Oct AIBF flyover. Chile members taking part in both Saturdays were "Vyking" Nystrom (RV3), "Zap" Rehburg (4); "Goat" Olsen (4), "Longbow" Jones (3), "Boo" Booher (8A), "Spanky" Farley (8), "Stogie" Otero (7) and "Goliath" Taylor (8).

200KT GS Club Entry ...sbalmos

What I thought was going to be highly improbable to achieve and left to the more-powerful RVs happened this past Saturday. Took advantage of a crisp, cold fall day, grabbed my oxygen, and went searching for my 9A's service ceiling. I didn't quite make it there - an air gap between my canopy skirt and the fuse was making for quite a chilly cockpit, even with heat. 21F made for some frosty hands!

But I made it in the 200kt club! That was one heck of an incredible tailwind I got when I turned to take advantage of it. Probably would've been even faster if I kept climbing. WOT here at 15k and the climb rate was still at least 400fpm at 90 KIAS when I leveled out. And this is on a typical 3-blade Catto FP, not repitched or anything, and 150 HP engine. Now I'm getting impressed at where the -9 likes to live, going multi-state cross country.

Electrical Project ...RV7ForMe

Sometimes at bed time when it would be to late to start anything else I tinker with some electrical projects.

I have read a bunch about the standard Flap motor not being "perfect"
During the rebuild of the other RV7A with G3X system the flap position was missing. So I added with a ray allen position sensor. It also had the "Flap Positioning System" by show planes.

Motor
Sensor mounted to the motor
Potentiometer mounted to the motor

This kicked of this idea. There is got the be a simpler way.
What I came up with is a motor that has it's own potentiometer inside.
Then I got a arduino board to play with and after about 3 months I got the first beta version that does everything I want it to do.

Status Report ...jcarne 7A

200KT GS Club Entry ...sbalmos
What I thought was going to be highly improbable to achieve and left to the more-powerful RVs happened this past Saturday. Took advantage of a crisp, cold fall day, grabbed my oxygen, and went searching for my 9A's service ceiling. I didn't quite make it there - an air gap between my canopy skirt and the fuse was making for quite a chilly cockpit, even with heat. 21F made for some frosty hands!

But I made it in the 200kt club! That was one heck of an incredible tailwind I got when I turned to take advantage of it. Probably would've been even faster if I kept climbing. WOT here at 15k and the climb rate was still at least 400fpm at 90 KIAS when I leveled out. And this is on a typical 3-blade Catto FP, not repitched or anything, and 150 HP engine. Now I'm getting impressed at where the -9 likes to live, going multi-state cross country.

Hangar Cleaning: Items for Sale ...Bob Collins

I've got to mate the wings to the RV-12iS fuse AND somehow fit the camper I bought (and couldn't use) at Oshkosh this year.

So in the process of throwing a bunch of stuff out (engine crate, C-frame table, soundproofing that I had for the old plane), I figured a few of these might be of interest to somebody. Or not.

Oct 14, 2019.  Issue #4,933.
  Really looking forward to some of the Petit Jean pictures showing up online - HERE's the thread for them if you're so inclined.  If you didn't go to PJ and got some quality RV time, chime in HERE if'n you wanna.  Hope you had a great weekend.

Milestone: Airworthiness Cert! ...bwestfall

Got my Airworthiness Certificate today! It's been a 13 year journey that at times I've wondered if it would ever end, build phase that is.

I guess its time to update my signature

PJ PIREP ...scard

RV3 Bottom Skins ...RV3Kev

Finally started on the bottom skins today. I found the problem with the inboard skins being too short. I was kind of expecting this based on reading a number of build sites.

Sketch 9 shows the overall length of the skin to be 48". When I add up all the other dimensions on this drawing, the over length should be 48 1/8". When I do the same calculation based on the rib stations, I get 48 1/8".

I'm On My Way: Video #2 ...SuperCubDriver

Milan Linate Air Show.

In occasion of a major overhaul of the Milan Linate Airport, the runway has been closed to traffic for the last few months.
Today and tomorrow a big airshow is scheduled and among many performers, including the italian Air Force Aerobatic Team Frecce Tricolori, there is also a VAN RV8 Aerobatic team performing a nice display.

Here the link to the italian newspaper....i will post some of my pictures in the next couple of day.

A big thank you to Luca Perazzoli and Dante Francesco for the beautiful display (pictures 18 and 19)

3D Parts To Make Your Build Easier ...Rteem

During the building process, I found it useful to have some things custom made. I am making them available on Shapeways without a markup just as a courtesy to other builders. This is my way of giving back to this forum which has been an amazingly helpful group of people. This isn't all of my parts, but it takes time to prepare these and upload - more coming in the future if people like these.

You can order directly from the following link - I'm not making any money here, so if something goes wrong or the part isn't to your satisfaction, sorry. Order at your own risk. I used them with success but am not giving any express or implied warranty. Constructive feedback is welcome.

What'd You Do With Your RV This Weekend? ...dr

(Sid)
Spent the weekend at Petit Jean! Flew formation, popped balloons with my prop, ate great food, had a blast!

(Claude)
Took advantage of beautiful conditions on Friday and went up and got my night currency back. Don't have much night time in my plane and nothing since January. What a great time to fly. I'm going to have to fix up my panel lighting, the dimable led strip I have is useless, it flickers widely and the only thing it lights up well is the photocell on my Dynon HDX which makes the dimming change on that.

(James)
Did my very first trip to Petit Jean.

Friday I waited for the wind and ceilings to go away and then hopped up to KSWI for cheap gas.

KSWI-KMPJ was awesome!!! Made 260mph GS on the way with the awesome winds! Arrival into MPJ was late, the airport was deserted! Not a soul in site when I arrived (they were all at the reception..) But it seemed like a disaster type movie... fires still going... stuff left behind.. not a person to be seen. Kind of cool.

Saturday I woke up early from the campsite and hopped over for some gas then joined Scroll flight for a 4 ship (my FIRST ONE) back to MPJ.. which was awesome... if anyone has any pictures of us coming in to the break, PLEASE share them with me.... I got 2 streamers during the balloon pop, I vow to kill those little buggers next year! [ed. James' formation skills are improving exponentially - he's got a few learner flights off my wing and he's solid. vr,dr]

Sunday, a solemn flight back to 52F by way of SWI... somewhere between MPJ and SWI I decided I needed to do some aileron rolls. So I did about... 5.

Was an INCREDIBLE time and exactly the reason I bought my RV-4. My only regret was not getting to really know anyone.  Next time I will be going up on Thursday to give me more time to check out planes and meet folks!

 

Interesting Morning Shot ...TomVal

RV Weekend ...N402RH [ed. You gotta see these mountain shots.  Wow! v/r,dr]

Jennifer spent the week working at Dynon in Seattle and had a reservation to fly home on the 6:30 Alaska Airlines flight. The plan was for me to pick her up at the Portland airport at 7:30 and then make the 3 1/2 hour drive to Sunriver in Bend OR for the weekend. I was dreading the Friday afternoon traffic in Portland when it dawned on me, I can actually fly to Seattle in the RV-10 faster than I can drive to the Portland Airport. We could then fly from Seattle direct to Sunriver and avoid the 3 1/2 hour drive and late night arrival.

I installed some new beta software in the EFIS screens that we needed to test and packed the RV-10 for the weekend. It was one of those spectacular fall afternoons in the northwest when Truman and I took off headed for Seattle to pick Jennifer up.

Words of Motivation ...dreed

It's been a long time since I was on the emp, but as I recall I screwed up more than a few things and made several trips down to Vans. Fast forward to the side skirts on the slider and maybe 2-3 sets later it's good. Everyone on here has different battles, challenges, etc. but we all have them.

I am not even flying yet but am finally getting close-ish and I say soldier on- stop, have a beer, organize your tools or take your wife out to dinner. You'll miss it and then head back in.

 

Milestone: It Begins ...jdog0411

Look what the FedEx guy delivered to me today. Empennage kit for the RV-14A. Now comes the inventory. So excited!

Basically Finished (his words) ...rv8ch

I'm happy to show you some pictures taken today of my basically finished RV-8. Not all the inspection panels are installed, since I need a final inspection before I can start putting fuel in, and starting the engine. Quite happy with the result!

Status Report ...kentlik

Oct 11, 2019.  Issue #4,932.
  The Petit Jean fly-in is this weekend and I'm looking forward to seeing pictures when they start getting uploaded (placeholder created).  Pic #1 below from a decade ago - as always Jay Pratt center stage laughing. ;^)  RVs in the background of course.  Great venue and friends.
  Wishing you and yours a happy, safe and RV-filled weekend.

2009

2019: Planes already there (Thursday evening).

When you Need Motivation (from the 'About to throw in the towel' Thread ...Jim Ivey

The RV-14 is awesome and very worth the effort. Putting your heart and soul into something and then conquering it is the point. Sometimes it's sand castles, ice sculptures or sidewalk chalk art. Things appreciated for the process rather than a lasting usable result. The process and learning is one of the best parts, even if sometimes only recognizable later. Yes, it sux right now. No candy coating about it. But this is precisely the thing you will look back on one day and appreciate your aircraft even more. It is the hard, complicated problems we step up to fix that makes us more whole. More complete. More satisfied in the end.

My very good friend Dennis built an RV-8 with his father. It was a 11 year slow build by two fellows who started from zero knowledge. At the beginning of the project one of Dennis' mantras was that he wanted to, "Savor the experience". A few years down the road found Dennis in the tail cone in 120 degree weather holding a bucking bar while his dad stood outside with a rivet gun hollering, "Are you savoring the experience?". It was a quote that got thrown around alot during the stressful parts of the build. Good guys. And the end result was one of my favorite airplanes of all time.

So, as for me. Did you know if you are building an Avid Flyer or Kitfox it is very easy to build two right or left wings instead of one of each? So much so the Avid factory had a wing hotline where builders who did that could swap one wing with another builder who built two of the opposite side. Please don't ask me how I know. That was a bad day in Flat Rock. What's more I was an aerospace design engineer in Seattle at the time. So you are doing just fine. And the RV-14 is super nice and worth it.

I am putting a newly redone engine on my RV-8 right now and when it's tested I would be happy to come up and visit you in Edgewood and let you have a go. I have a friend up there I need to see anyway. We airplane people types are good. We can count on each other.

Thanks for starting a great thread. In frustration for sure. But you hit a nest of people who know exactly how you feel.

Update on This Weekend's Memorial Fly-in in Calhoun, GA

Just wanted to bring this back to the forefront. I know the weather will be cool and we are hoping that it's VFR enough to draw a crowd. If you are within an hour or Calhoun, Ga. , please consider joining us. We want this to be a big hit. As mentioned, ALL PILOTS WILL BE SERVED FREE LUNCH. Mark brother is making a very large amount of BBQ to feed the crowd. Also, the spot landing and flower drops competition will have very nice prize giveaways.

Hope to see you there.

Wings ON Wings OFF ...Brendon Johnson's take

They have to come off at least once anyway
The wings need to be fit and the rear spar aligned and drilled. Then the bottom flange of fuselage marked and drilled. Then they have to come back off to install nutplates @ the bottom inboard part of the wing and counter sink the flange on the fuselage. If you remember everything the first time you can get by with only removing them once. I only did the rear spar hole the first time so i had to refit them to mark and drill the fuselage flange holes. I would also do the front tank to fuselage bracket as well.

Brian Lester's Mobile Tool Stand

Basically it started as storage for my table saw but turned into a pretty nice tool stand. I basically have 4 tools mounted to the top. Band Saw, Drill Press, bench grinder, and belt sander. It's not perfect as I sometimes have to shift the drill press slightly, but overall it works great and it's easy to move between tools when making parts (band saw -> belt sander -> Bench Grinder w/ Scotchbright wheel).

Below is what it looked like before the drill press and bench grinder. DRDT-2 doesn't work on the cart that well.

EngineBridge Firmware v.1.4 is Out ...VAF advertiser

Download the firmware file along with the Update procedure PDF here:
PMag Controller HW V1.4

If the PMags & Controller connected to the same power switch (such as Master Switch) and are normally powered at the same time then no need to update to this version.

Changes:
A note from a customer that his dual PMags are not normally powered with the Master Switch, while the controller is. This is so he can work on the airplane or avionics without the need to have power on the Mags.

The current version of the Controller searches for one min for one or two PMags then it enables Wi-Fi pages. If dual PMags are available, this takes a few seconds after power up. If one PMag found, or none are found, it tires for one min before enabling Wi-Fi. This means for this customer, he needs to restart the Controller when he powers the PMags to start the engine.

This update lets the Controller keep searching for PMags after the initial one minute timeout. It is recommended to power the PMags & Controller at the same time, but for those who have their PMags on a separate switch and usually power the Controller first then this update solves the need to Restart the Controller after powering up the PMag.

Regarding his RV-8 Oil Cooler ...DanH

"It does not extend all the way to the freestream, but rather to the top of a converging exit bell exhausting all the cowl air. Oil cooler mass flow meets the majority mass flow at a right angle, more or less, so I didn't want significant velocity. So, if the duct exit is smaller than the cooler face area, it is not by much. The area was set by the available space between engine mount tubes. I do not know the exact area."

Garmin GDL 82 V2.01 Software, Oct. 10, 2019 ...g3xpert

Hello GDL 82 Users,

As some of you are aware, the initial GDL 82 software could transmit a couple of "uncloaked" ADS-B Out messages with real aircraft ICAO address and Flight ID on power-up, even with the transponder code set to 1200 and the Anonymous switch active.

Many of you requested this be improved, and we are happy to report that this work is complete. The new V2.01 software includes improvements to make sure that a system starting up with the Anonymous mode switch active and a transponder code of 1200 will enter Anonymous before transmitting any messages thus safeguarding the true ICAO address and Flight ID of the aircraft.

We also created a special non-certified aircraft service bulletin with instructions on using the same PC installation tool and USB interface you originally used to install/configure the system to install the new software.

The service bulletin and V2.01 software can be downloaded from the GDL 82 Software Download page. There is one download for the software plus service bulletin, and a second for the PC tool if you need it. The PC tool is unchanged.

Let us know if you have questions.

Thanks,
Steve

Small Business Comedy

ZipRecruiter mailed me this envelope yesterday.  Apparently they think there is more than one employee (me).  Now if you'll excuse me, the CEO has to go fix the toilet. ;^) 

Oct 10, 2019.  Issue #4,931.

An amazing story: Clifford Arthur Princehorn's RV-8A

Maitland, New South Wales, Australia.  RV-8A #82295

[ed. You're going to want to read every word of this.  The dedication and focus of Mr. Princeton is absolutely jaw dropping.  Well done, Sir!  v/r,]

First Flight Update

The mothership has added a bunch of recent first flights to their site.

Milestone: Phase 1 Complete ...WingsOnWheels

Completed phase 1 yesterday. I have the nose wheel fairings off right now for paint, but otherwise the plane is ready to explore. Currently will do 170kTAS at 8000ft DA wide open. I'm hoping to gain a few knots with the nose fairing.

Happy Birthday Tater!

Today is our son Tate's 19th birthday.  I just wanted to take a second to wish the best son a dad could ever want a happy 19th.  Mom and I are so very proud of you, the young man you've become, your work ethic, your kindness and your compassion.  We thank God every single day since you came into our lives.

Happy Birthday son!  Love, Dad.   

PS: Nice skateboard.  I'm guessing the previous owner had it going on back in the day ;^).

Milestone: Finally finished interior

Started building in 2009, first flight 2016, interior side panels 2019! After it was flying, my interior completion slowed to a crawl. My leather seats were done 5 years ago by me and a seamstress friend. Sides were bare aluminum till this week. I heard about Lemke upholsterers in Germany that started making RV interiors this year and with some trepidation decided to try them. I sent them a leather hide so it would match what we did and they turned out great. Their price was good, communication very prompt, and fit and finish excellent! Only downside was it took several months to complete. I'm so excited, I had to show off some pictures!
__________________
Ned Richer
Rv9a

Canopy skirt interior ...Sam_B

Hello all, just got the final shape of the canopy skirt done tonight. To get there, I had to make a few cuts then hot glue the skirt to the packing tape that was on the rear top skin. It turned out nice on the outside, but the inside looks rough. What did those that have gone before do to give the inside of the canopy skirt a more finished look? I was thinking of something like this.

It would be a good place for flashlights, pens, maps, etc though I'm not sure I need all that storage.

Also wouldn't work toward the back either, so I was just wondering what others had done.

Best regards,
Sam

Project: Design RV-6 Tire Jack ...mbauer

Working on a creating a portable RV Jac.

Came up with a simple screw jack setup. Now working on getting it manufactured by a local fabrication shop.

Gone through several design changes, have a final edition that isn't shown, it is over at the metal fab shop for a price quote. As you can see from the photos, I'm not the best welder...   continue

Oct 9, 2019.  Issue #4,930.
 

Got My Instrument Airplane Today in My 10 - Good Story ...Larry Anderson

Folks:

I've had Commercial Instrument Helicopter rating for decades (courtesy of the U S Army), but to be legal for IFR in my 10, I had to get the Instrument Airplane add on.

When I called the Examiner, he initially said that he "doesn't do homebuilts". I was bummed out. He asked, "Is it a tail dragger"?. No, I said. I described a tricycle gear, 4 place, very nice machine. I also explained that is was an all Garmin glass cockpit, with the Garmin GTN 650 as the IFR navigator. He asked me to send a picture. I sent him a picture of the outside of the plane, and one with the panel all lit up. He immediately responded back, "OK I'll do it" :-).

Today when I was there for the ride, he actually brought a friend (an RV-8 owner) over to show him the plane, which made me proud, to show it off:-).

Anyway, the ride went well. I hand flew the 2 precision approaches (ILS and LPV), and the autopilot flew the VOR. I'm glad it's done. Now there's less pressure on staying legal VFR for my trips now:-). I really love this 10.

Petit Jean 2019 - WEATHER OPTIONS

"It looks like Thursday is great and Saturday Sunday will be great but chance of rain on Friday. Rain usually scattered this time of year but for those that want to come in a day early on Thursday for the pre-party party! No worries...... WE HAVE A PLAN to cover you!

We are expecting 20 - 30 airplanes in on Thursday, which guarantees us a good time on the ramp. Most of those booked the available rooms on the Mountain so no problem if you are already confirmed."  more

 

RV-7 For sale...Subwaybob

Man, I hate to do this because I love it, but I'm building a 10 and they are not giving away the engine and instruments these days...

RV Model: RV-7
Quick Build (QB) or Standard Build (SB): Quick Build
Slider or Tip Up: Slider
Location: KHQZ (Mesquite Airport Mesquite, TX)
Price: $108,250
more

Step for Taildragger Discussion ...Veetail88

Anyone installed the boarding step on an 8 tail dragger! Thinking about it as that first big step is kind of a pain. Pics please!

Thinking about a non-stop Atlantic crossing

. . .catmandu comedy

Just need a proper hard point (got a call into the mothership), plumbing should be easy.

My RV Weekend ...Jonathan Alvord

Thursday: Took the RV 7 for a short, warm up the oil ride, and then performed oil change.

Friday: Flew from Eastern Washington to Elko NV, Page AZ, and Santa Fe NM with my wife. Flying over Bryce Canyon with the fall folliage, over Lake Powell, and through Monument Valley along the way.

Saturday: Flew up to Grants New Mexico and read about Arrows Across America where arrow were placed on the ground for pilots to navigate across America delivering Mail. Drove up to the top of Mount Taylor NM (one of the Sacred Navajo Mountains) with my wife and Daughter. We left NM at 5pm and were able to over fly Canyonlands as the Sun was setting which was quite spectacular. The remaining 5 hour flight to Eastern Washington was at night, smooth and a bit chilly (1 degree Celsius). Arrived home and went Skydiving Sunday!
Total flight time 16hrs.

Oct 8, 2019.  Issue #4,929
  It was a glorious 60*F Monday morning in DFW and there was a LOT of RV activity at our field.  Hundred mile viz for the first time in long while really brought out the pilots.  Hello fall...we've missed you.
 

Headed to the Mountain ...Capt Sandy starts the 'Headed to Petit Jean' thread ;^)

Starting our journey to Petit Jean! All this has to fit in the RV - no problem, right? (Can you tell I love packing cubes??) Can hardly wait to see our friends on the mountain

Squeezer Smilies ...Greg

Hi all,

I clearly can't hold a squeezer straight to save myself and get quite lot of these smilies around round head rivets...hope the link works...

I'm not sure whether they are only in the primer or affect the aluminium as well (primer is way too thick so they possibly didn't get all the way through). I can't see any shiny metal at the bottom of any of them but I guess the only way to be sure is to sand it back to see if the aluminium is damaged and go from there. Any thoughts anyone, should I bother?

Thanks,

My RV Weekend ...RV8Squaz

My weekend started earlier this week.

Thursday
After finishing the firewall forward portion of my condition inspection I took a buddy of mine with me to Columbus GA (54 nm) to deliver some Whelen LED beacons to be installed on our Bonanza. The airplane is there for an annual inspection. This happened to coincide with the shop's annual open house/bbq. Awesome people and food. The technicians at Columbus Aero Services are quite good. They're all very honest, hard working, and reasonable mechanics. Three of them are IA's.

Friday
Flew four legs. 1. Took my chute to Thomaston for repacking. 2. Left there to practice some aerobatics and went to Berry Hill to have lunch with a high school friend of mine that is also employed by the major airline based in Atlanta. He lives only a few minutes from the airport. He has a Bellanca Viking that he normally keeps there. We went to a relatively new mom & pop bbq joint in town that was very very good. Like I said, he and I went to HS together. He ended up taking lessons from the instructor I was using and also got his PPL. Later we went our separate ways, he to U of Florida and me to Embry-Riddle. He had a 21 year career in the Navy and me a 20 year career in the AF. And then we end up at the same air line living only 22 nm from each other. How cool is that! 3. He dropped me off back at the airport and I flew back to Thomaston to pick up my chute. 4. Flew back to Falcon Field and mixed it up in the pattern with various airplanes.

Saturday
Gave a ride to another scout's dad that I have become friends with over the years. My son Max became an Eagle Scout last month and his son is on his way to becoming an Eagle scout very soon. The boys hung out in the hangar while the dads flew

Sunday (today)
Flew my son up to Chilhowee TN (92A), 112 nm north of FFC for his glider lessons. Filed IFR and took off in a 900' ceiling. Fortunately the gliderport was VFR. In addition to becoming an Eagle Scout last month, he also got to solo a glider for the first time last month. It was a big month for him. He turns 16 in February and the goal is for him to complete his Private Pilot-Glider check ride on his birthday and solo a powered aircraft the next day.

Tomorrow (Monday)
I plan on doing the tires and brakes. I've got all new tires, tubes, and brake linings to install. If the weather allows in the afternoon, a friend of mine is going to give me a ride in his Extra 300L in preparation for the next contest. A very very generous offer one of which I am very excited and appreciative of!

Its been a great few days with fantastic utilization of my RV! Sure is fun!

 

Status Report ...kentlik

Cut a section of the skin off to get access to the spar rivets, very clean and corrosion-free. I am rebuilding an entire leading edge for this wing.

Oct 7, 2019.  Issue #4,928
  A little .2hr hop Friday morning to realign the mental gyros was it for me, but a lot of folks got their RV on over the weekend (proof).  I spent the weekend hanging out with the Tater (home Fri/Sat), doing yardwork and studying airplane stuff (never stop).  While here he put new bearings and truck bushings in the 1979 Powell Peralta 'Skull & Sword' skateboard I used in high school and at Baylor, and took it with him back to SMU.  He promised a pic in front of Dallas Hall.  Original 'Bones' wheels from when they first appeared on the market - my Dad drove me down to the UPS facility in Waco to pick them up (I couldn't drive yet).  Bought them over the phone with a neighbor's credit card (handed them cash - we didn't have a CC).  Tate used his grandfather's vise (who he never met) to tune up the trucks on his dad's skateboard so he could be old school wicked.  Guess it's easier than him walking around campus with a bucking bar in his pocket. ;^)  
   I spent an hour down the Youtube wormhole looking at old 80's skateboard stuff, and I kept thinking..... "I had hair".  Fair warning if you go searching too...
  Lower temps finally arrived Sunday and M-W might make for some nice temps for an RV hop.  SMU is 6-0 for the first time since '82.  The three OTs for the win gave both Suz and me headaches <g>.
  I've talked too much.....on to the RV news.  Hope you had a great weekend!  . 

Status Report ...goatflieg

Weekend ...SPX

After a bit of ignition system troubleshooting during the week, it was time to enjoy the now fixed airplane. I flew over to Ramona, Ca (RNM) where they were having an 'Air Fair.'

Pretty nice showing of RV's in for the get together .. seven varying RV models flying in formation over the airport, Bruce Hill giving Young Eagle rides in his RV-9A, a few RV-6's in the main display area, along with my and one other RV-9A, plus Plummit's RV-10 in transient parking, along with a RV-6A, and perhaps others. RV's were well represented.

Several antique airplanes were being shown, a T-6 was giving rides, several light sport aircraft were parked in the show area, along with a glider, a few T-34's, and lots more that I'm missing.

In the back area were several exhibitors, ranging from the Boy Scouts to CalFire, the local EAA chapter, and many others.

Lastly, there was a bit of a car show area as well, with mostly classic cars.

The highlight of my day was running into the aviation insurance broker for my day job, who was there with her 13 year old son who had never been in a small plane. I fixed that. We went for a short ride around the local area, which he loved. Now he wants to learn to fly.

Status: 243 Hours In..... ...Earl Findlay

Hal and I have been hard at work on our RV-14. We ordered the fuselage kit some time back, and as of today, according to our build log we have 243 man hours into the build.

Everything is going smoothly, I am learning a ton, and based on our current pace, if we can get the kits, engine, avionics, and interior when needed, I think we have a good shot at getting the kit done in about 14 months, start to finish. This will put us nearly a year ahead of schedule. Keep in mind we are doing between 60 and 80 man hours per week. This may slow a bit, but we are scooting right along.

Starting this project, I was extremely apprehensive. It was all for nothing. If you're debating doing a build, JUST DO IT.

Status ...Foghorn 8

The big cut fastback style.

Weekend ...Scott Chastain

Rock Hopping
After 5 weekends of being stuck at home behind a computer, I took the Dove for a quick spin over Yosemite and zipped through Tioga Pass where we landed for some brunch at Lee Vining, California (O24). The weather was perfect with just a nip of autumn tinging the air.

N61LD Regestered ...LD Blake milestone

Calling in the DAR for this Friday if he can make it. 6 hous on Hobbs and 3.3 On the tach. My 1st piston engine overhaul and she started ran and broke in great.
I'm scheduled Thursday eve. For my hour of dual in an RV6 to satisfy insurance requirements.
I'm looking for test flight plans as required by FAA if anyone has one to share or a link to one it would be much appreciated. I'm currently using th AC to wright one up but could use some help.
The engine runs and taxi test have been unbelievably exciting. Hope to take flight this month my dads birthday month.

I think I need to order a new HS skin ...rv1988golf

I let the bucking bar bang against the skin on the forward rivet on the HS skin. Planning on ordering a new one . What do you think ?

Status Report on Panel Hinge ...jcarne

The hinges are not stock but a lot of people add little drop down trays for electronics. You can see the little "tray" in this pic (I should probably call it a panel). On the left side I'm going to put 2 fuse blocks and my e-bus diode. The right side will get the Dynon EMS and battery bus with e-bus relay. Stay tuned for pics on that.

Status Report ...kentlik

Tip for drilling rivets when they have paint over them: Don't remove the paint from them. Sounds crazy but after drilling literally hundreds if not a thousand rivets out, the drill bit wanders less and they snap off really nicely.

Saves a bunch of time.

Weekend ...Plummit

1st Sunday at Santa Paula
This morning we flew to Santa Paula for their 1st Sunday (of the month) event.
We transitioned the LAX Special flight rules corridor at 4500 feet:

Weekend ...bruceh

I gave 3 Young Eagles rides at the Ramona Air Fair for EAA Chapter 14. After they wound down the YE flights, I gave my friend Jim, a rusty pilot, a ride down and around San Diego. Gorgeous day to go fly! He was very impressed by the RV-9A and how it handles.

It was also good meeting Josh for the first time and seeing Al, Marc and Rita there, too.

Oct 4, 2019.  Issue #4,927
  (From the mothership) "We have a job opening for a RV Builder Tech Support Representative at Van's. This job is located at our Oregon office location. If you're interested, check out the listing and apply at jobs@vansaircraft.com"
  Wishing you and yours a happy, safe and RV-filled weekend. 
 

Fly-in coffee st Sunrise Skypark

Anyone else flying in to Sunrise Skypark (ID40) near Marsing, ID tomorrow for the every-Friday-at-1000 coffee in a hangar? I'll be there with my RV-8A

Weekend Fun ...SPX 9A

On Friday, I had a big RPM drop when I did a mag check. Opened up the cowling on Saturday, and discovered the #3 cylinder top plug wire was disconnected. Reconnected it, cleaned all of the plugs, and put the cowl back on. Did a runup, and all good.

Flew it on Monday and on the way back home, it didn't feel like the engine was running as well as usual. Did a mag check after landing, and cylinders #3 and 4 were dropping offline when the ignition selector was on R.

Opened up the cowl again, and on first look, everything seemed OK. Re-seated the plug wires, and that didn't help. Dug deeper and found an electrical connector for the lightspeed was loose. Secured it, did another runup and finally, all good again.

Need to find something to do with my RV this weekend, now that it's running well again!

Part 32: Resurrection ...Scott Chastain's 'Resurrection America'

Weldon 16 is cracking my canopy. Why??? ...dwranda

I had a crack in my canopy and decided to fix it as well as I could using the weldon products. I drilled a hole using a plexi bit to stop the crack. I filled in the crack with the thinner weldon #3 and sanded it down so its smooth. I then filled the stop drill hole with #16. I checked it about an hour later and there were little spiderweb cracks emanating from the hole. I had no idea how they showed up. I drilled those out and just filled those holes with the 16 again. 10 minutes later more cracks showed up. I drilled a bunch of practice holes in some scrap and can't get any cracks to show up in the scrap pieces. Why is my canopy cracking when I put the weldon in the hole?

Sedona Airport Day, Sat. Oct 5, 2019

This Saturday, October 5, 2019 at Sedona Airport (KSEZ) from 9 am to 3 pm.

Oct 3, 2019.  Issue #4,926  

VAFcast#6 ...Sid Mayeux RV-7A

The VAF podcast.

Oct 2, 2019.  Issue #4,925  
  A reminder that there are criminals in this world and they are darn sneaky.  If, for example, a piece of expensive avionics comes up for sale and you're interested in possibly buying it, please read this first (#4, 5, 8 and 11 are pretty important).  A link to this document lives on the front page a little bit above the Off Topic picture.  Buyer beware.
  Unrelated, I guess you saw this from O'Hare.  "That's how you do it."  
 

Amazing Day First 2 flights! ...ty1295

Today was the day so many of us look forward to.

RV9A, Originally builder was Carl Peters who posted on here several years back. He got the kit just past quick build status, I was lucky enough to do all the personal item selection like Dynon, Titan IO-340, Catto Prop, etc.

I purposely did not install any Aileron trim yet as I wanted to see how the plane flew first. I am happy to saw we were able to fly completely hands off first flight.

I can also attest to how valuable I found the "ADDITIONAL PILOT PROGRAM". I am very fortunate to have a 700+ hr RV Time and builder on the field, CFII and co-pilot of the 747 that flew into Oshkosh this year just a few hangars away. He has been super valuable in his insight on building, and today the flying. I did the takeoff with minor verbal suggestions. During the flight one of us could fly, while the other watch engine status, radios, etc. Being a low time pilot I knew I wasn't ready to solo a new airplane, but surely wanted that first flight of an airplane after years of work and an empty piggy bank.

As I have read on here before, keep pounding those rivets and dedicate time on a regular basis and you will make it.

Oct 1, 2019.  Issue #4,924  

My RV Weekend ...bruceh

Miramar Airshow!
I got the chance to fly into MCAS Miramar and have my RV-9A on static display for the 3 days of the airshow. I'll write up more on the experience when I get a chance.

Sep 30, 2019.  Issue #4,923
  Friday I got in a little formation training hop with 52F new guy James Walsh in his RV-4.  His brother John rode in my pax seat and got some pics.  Gary Platner rode in the back of James' plane with helpful tips.  Saturday Susie and I turned this into this, and Sunday was spent nursing sore muscles.  The back still hurts but we saved money....;^).  In the Tater department, he got back the grade on his 2nd Chemistry exam at SMU (25% of his grade).  89.6.  And the grade on his 2nd Spanish exam?  88.25.   The kiddo is adapting well to college and finding his stride.  He's back in the chemistry lab now also as a PAID student - $10/hr.  No more of this intern stuff <g>.  Chest swelling with pride for the Tate Man!!!
  Hope you had a great weekend and got to do some RV stuff.  There is a thread if you want to let us know!  

John Walsh photo

I'm On My Way (the video)  ...SuperCubDriver

Here is one first video as promised. More to come.

Sep 27, 2019.  Issue #4,922
  Wishing you and yours a happy, safe and RV-filled weekend.  
 

Sky, Scorch and Grump years ago from the vault.

Status Report ...jcarne 7A

Well it's been a couple weeks but not due to a lack of work. I have been hard at it with wiring and panel work while I still wait for my engine mount. I would have REALLY liked to save this panel work for the winter as it would be perfect inside stuff. It just didn't pan out that way though.

Anywaaays...

I decided to use some coated aluminum called Durablack to make all of my panel labels. This worked spectacularly! The Durablack meets a milspec and has some impressive environment testing on it. I bought some Durablack in 0.020" and 0.005". The 0.020" for a sheet of 12" x 20" was about 35 bucks from johnsonplastics, it also has a very nice adhesive backing (although you can get it without if you want). This size sheet was more than enough. The 0.005" was a little harder to work with, didn't shear as well and honestly really, really thin. The thin stuff would be great if you wanted to curve a label; however, everything on the panel is flat so 0.020" it was. This was also a great opportunity to teach my new classes this year how to use our laser engraver. Those of you that use a laser engraver know what a reaaaal treat it is getting the power and speed settings just right for a new material is. It took us quite some time but in the end we got something that worked awesome.

Sep 26, 2019.  Issue #4,921
  Note: Friday edition might show up online later than usual - schedule conflict.  

HS remote work surface - RV style <g>.
Chair slides right under.

Reader Milestone:  Retirement ...mike newall (England)

Well, after 27 years of Inter European, Airtours, MyTravel and Thomas Cook, the robbers in the high tower finally drove us into the ground. However, only the UK arm of the airline was affected - miraculously, both the German and Nordic airlines received support from their governments and are still flying. Our fleet of 40 were grounded on Sunday, the CAA and UK Government rented in 40 foreign airplanes to recover our passengers at a cost of 600 mil.

Anyhow, I am 61, was going at Christmas in any case but that doesn't cushion the blow for thousands of other employees.

But, on Saturday, I had to ferry an empty A330 from Manchester to Glasgow - 36 minutes and bless them, the Engineers asked for a full power take off.

I briefed the FO about the event, but it still blew his socks off !

Here are the stats.

Normal empty position sector from MAN to GLA. The Engineers had asked for a full power takeoff, which is required from time to time to trap parameters. Once at Glasgow, it then goes to Cancun and back. As they fuel with bowsers at GLA, we take 30 tonnes of gas up to speed the turn, so my take off mass was 151 tonnes.

V1 - 115kts
Vr - 115kts
V2 - 122kts

The anti stall/surge system on the Trent is MEASTO and it controls the rate of acceleration of the engines, hence it takes a while to spool up, but at full power, that is around 31,000kg of thrust from each engine, each consuming around 11,000kg per hour at take off.

Sorry fellas - times by 2.2 to make it imperial ;-)

So, we are on our way !

At rotate, we wait until the main bogies have dropped, that ensures tail clearance and then it is a smooth pull to full back stick which gives about 28* nose up with full envelope protection in normal law. We are now at about 150kts and the speed starts to decay slowly as the rate of climb peaks at around 8500 fpm. Then you notice a slight pitch down as the speed comes back to around V2 plus 10 and we continue the climb to thrust reduction and acceleration at 1300' doing around 6000fpm. At no time during the process are you anywhere near limiting speeds or protections kicking in, it is just what an empty A330 does when you give it the beans !

Then it is normal - albeit it with a slight grin.

We landed, got home, the airline went bust that night

I have done several talks to aviation enthusiasts over the years so I reached out to see if by fluke, anyone had captured the take-off. There are a lot of them every day at the airport - great folks, full of enthusiasm for aviation, just sometimes not able to take part.

Can you imagine my complete surprise when this appeared on YouTube3 hours later.

A massive, massive thanks to AirBorn Media, John Rawson - look at his stuff, great work.

That's it folks, full time RV building and flying, no more sneaky meet ups down route, I need a new Barber, mine was on OBT in Orlando - Rays Styling, Best Hair Cut In Town, Advice Given......

It's been a blast, but it is time to move on, my Doris (Andrea) turned 70 this year, we got a new puppy, Woody - lots of life and adventures.

To steal a good man's line.....

Back to Work

RV Hotel open for business in Harrogate England.

Sep 25, 2019.  Issue #4,920  

Weekend RV Fun ...flybill7

Seven RVs flew this weekend at the annual Easton Airport Day in Maryland, featuring a mass formation flight of 10 T-34s, 6 T-6, 1 CJ, 7 RVs and 4 Epsilons, followed by the famous Rubber Chicken Dropping Contest. The weather was perfect, the flying was great, and the catered food for the pilots was the best you'll ever have at an airport event and most restaurants! (I'm not kidding)

Here are the seven happy RV drivers: Top left to right: Mugsy, Zack, Pablo, Jolly, Big Al. Bottom left to right: Claw, Magellan.  ...

Sep 24, 2019.  Issue #4,919
  Susie and I (with Monk and his wife Kate) saw Peter Frampton perform Sunday night.  I've never seen him play live before, and spent the evening in jaw-dropped fascination in the presence of a proper gun slinger in his preferred element.  This is, if you don't know, his farewell tour due to a medical condition.  Getting to see the famous '54 black Les Paul Custom with my MK1 eyeballs, arguably one of the five most famous guitars in all of rock and roll, is a special moment in my life.  Paul McCartney's original Hofner bass?  Jimi Hendrix's Woodstock Strat?  I can only think of a handful of what I would call 'Pillars of Rock and Roll' guitars.  Peter Frampton's '54 Les Paul has to be one.  It just has to.  'Frampton Comes Alive' went platinum 8X.
  If you don't know the story of this famous guitar, PLEASE take a moment to watch both THIS and THIS.  I think you'll be glad you did.
  'Do You Feel Like We Do' played 44 years after it was recorded live....on the same guitar.  One of life's special moments.  Here's another vid (16min) of 'Do you Feel' live from earlier this year.  Same lineup as we saw.  If you have the time.
  Thanks for letting me ramble on about music for a bit.  Now back to RVs.... 

FFI clinic in Italy ...lucaperazzolli

Together with Tobias Treichel I organized a FFI meeting in our local airport in northern Italy (Trento, LIDT).

We had the great opportunity to put together six RVs (3 RV-8, 1 RV-7, 2 RV-7A) with builders form Italy (me and Franz), Germany and Swiss (Tobias, Hermann, Dominik, Bernard).

We were under the guidance of Stephen Christoper and Steve Payne instructors and check pilot of FFI organization.

During the week the group flew around north-east of Italy to Asiago, Venice, Garda Lake and our mountains doing a lot of exercises lerning formation flight FFI standard techniques.

I flew with Stephen and Steve and I've really learned a lot (knowledge and learning is never enough). Thank you guys !!!

Sep 23, 2019.  Issue #4,918
  So what did you do with your RV this past weekend?  There's a thread for that.  The plan is for me to try to remember to start one each Sunday.  Hope you had a great weekend and your Monday goes swell. 
 

Build Status PIREP  ...lr172 RV-10

It has been a while since I posted something about my 10 build. Here is a pic of the project in it's current state. Sprayed the wings today and have only one more painting session for wingtips and cowl. Thank goodness the painting is almost done. A LOT of work for a project this size.

Sep 20, 2019.  Issue #4,917  
  Cracking the hangar door just a tad let in some interesting light this morning, and the reflections off the floor and how those interacted with the RV caught my eye.  What you can't see is how bad that belly needs cleaning.  Contrast is your friend....
  Wishing you and yours a happy, safe and RV-filled weekend!

Houston area monthly lunch (September 2019)

Hello, friends and neighbors! The third weekend draweth nigh, which means it's time again to gather, eat some B-52 burgers, and talk about our fine aircraft (or pending aircraft, as the case may be).

Let's meet at the Aviator's Grill at DWH, this Saturday at 11:30, for the usual.

Unfortunately I won't be able to make it this month - got some contractors coming out on Saturday and I need to be home to deal with them. So I'll catch up in October, for what will probably be our last fly-in lunch at Weiser.
__________________
Philip
-8 fuselage

Sep 19, 2019.  Issue #4,916  
  The Tater picked up a cold, so I used that excuse Wednesday to bring him a care package and buy his lunch near SMU.  Cough drops, tea and honey, Keebler E.L. Fudge cookies... After we ate some Bubba's chicken I watched him skate away on his board to his chemistry lab, with what society would deem fashionably dressed young students scattered about my FOV.  As the boy rolled away I saw the back of his shirt - the P-47 'Tarheel Hal', a shirt from the Lone Star Flight Museum bought many years ago.
  That boy's head is screwed on right, me thinks.  How many of the 12,000 students know about Tarheel Hal?  My guess would be exactly one.  Two if you count my daughter, but she has already graduated. ;^).
  Next item:  If you are in the DFW area and are looking at adding on a multi-engine rating, I got this text from my MEI today:

"Doug, I had a student just cancel and a training slot open up starting next week for a test on October 10. Do you know anyone that could use that slot?" 

  If you're interested in knocking out your multi in a few days, Lora's contact info is: Lora.S.Lewis 'at' gmail.com  (910) 583-Three Two Eight Zero.  Lora has a Diamond Twin Star with a G-1000 and a control stick (just like an RV).  You can read about my multi rating add on HERE if interested.  I'm glad I did this and would do it again - and don't kid yourself....it's not that easy to find multi-instruction in today's flight school environment.  Most schools want a 'Zero to ATP' student now, and show add-on folks like me the door.  It took some time to find Lora.
   Did I mention the plane has air conditioning?

Vid of RV-4 Takeoff

52F's James in his RV-4 taking off Wednesday morning.  Surprised how well the little mic in the iPhone picks up that awesome engine sound.

Sep 18, 2019.  Issue #4,915  
  Four of us flew over to the Whistle Stop Cafe in Decatur, TX (KLUD) for breakfast Tuesday morning 0715 local.  Short notice...I didn't decide to go until an hour earlier.  Eight minutes each way.  They make homemade pies daily, which explains the picture below of my breakfast.  Oh baby...these are the things RVs are made for.

Sid(7A), Rick(8) and Ross(6) flew over as a 3-ship, smoke ON, overhead break.  I was minimal(ish) fuel so I opted out of the formation rejoins and 3-mile initial, instead going direct solo and buying gas there.  Spent an hour on the treadmill afterwards going through emails, but the damage was already done.

00000KT, 82*F and CAVU.  It was worth it, but yeah I need to get on the treadmill again....probably today. ;^)

Sep 17, 2019.  Issue #4,914  
  Happy birthday to our family's RV-6 'Flash'.  She took to the air (17) years ago today in the very capable hands of RV Godfather Jay Pratt of RV Central.  What a wonderful airplane and friend.  Related, looks like the mothership added (5) new first flight reports on the 16th (see 'em).  Congratulations to the newest RVators!!!
 

FOD Walk: 9/16/19

...my home field.  Nosewheel/pant or tailwheel related is the running theory.  That bolt is darn near pinky sized.  FOD checks work!!!

Hand model Rob Reece (RV-8) dr

Sep 16, 2019.  Issue #4,913  

from the vault

Lycoming oil cooler line connection

I found an image on the forum that showed the accessory case of a Lycoming engine with specific locations for connecting the oil cooler lines. My engine is an IO-360-A1A and I'm having trouble removing the plug that is located at one of the locations so that I can install the appropriate AN fitting. My question is (referring to the file linked to below) if it would be acceptable to use the #2 opening (located behind the tach drive--there's a plug sitting on top of the opening) rather than the #1 opening (which was identified in the other diagram)? It appears to me that both openings are in the same oil passageway in the back of the accessory case. Thank you!

Sep 13, 2019.  Issue #4,912
  Wishing you and yours a happy, safe and RV-filled weekend!
 

Eagle's Nest Projects - Central HS (WI)

Valarie Meyer - 1st Solo Flight (RV-12)

My solo was the most exhilarating experience I've ever had. Being up in the air and doing it all on my own was so empowering. I'm so thankful that I've gotten the opportunity to join this program and to have the privilege to work with Mr. Ferguson. He is a wonderful instructor and mentor, who prepared me well for this moment. - Valarie

Sep 12, 2019.  Issue #4,911

Airworthy!!!!

Another significant milestone today, Airworthiness!

So, upset training/aerobatic refresher in the Decathlon the end of this month followed by transition training with Mike Seager mid October then some appreciation for many years of effort.

I guess the certs aren't pink anymore, white will do.

Steven Hild
Rio Communities, NM USA
RV-7, N590SC

Sep 11, 2019.  Issue #4,910

Never Forget.

Hurricane Dorian Relief - RV-10 Style! ...AV8ER

Was able to load 480 pounds of donated water, food, hygiene, and bedding in the RV-10 and fly it for Angel Flights to North Eluethera where it will be distributed by boat. A few keys to loading the plane to the gills with gear are as such:

Put rolled paper product in the baggage compartment as it is extremely light for the volume it occupies to keep CG in spec.

Leave the rear seats in place and only remove the padding on the bottom to allow the uprights to ensure nothing heavy moves backward.

Fill the largest backpacking backpack you can find (I used a 60 liter Dueter backpack) with water bottles and strap in the co-pilot seat. The rest fits wherever it fits, starting with the largest boxes/parcels first then infilling. Was able to load then entire 480 pound pallet in the plane this way and keep it within CG. The water in the co-pilot seat helps.

The mission as per Mercy Flight Southeast:

"Bahamas Methodist Habitat has requested our help flying supplies to North Eleuthera (MYEH, White Crown Aviation FBO) where they have customs services and goods can be brought to Abaco and Grand Bahama by boat. Domestically, we now have supplies available to us in Ocala, and Ft Lauderdale Executive at Banyan."

Sep 10, 2019.  Issue #4,909

It's My Party and I Can ... (tcard)

...fly if I want to! OK, well maybe it is really, "It's my birthday and I can..."

I started a new job a couple months ago [huge blessing], and there was supposed to be a week off between gigs for Scott and I to head out on an adventure. Due to circumstances, that week of entertainment disappeared faster than a snowball in Texas in July.

Sep 6, 2019.  Issue #4,907
  James W. is the new guy on our field.  Bought an already-flying and unpainted RV-4 and is looking forward to learning formation with some of the local B.C. Squadron and attending Whataburger Wednesday outtings ;^).  The skies of  N. Texas are very well defended by Van's Air Force!
  Wishing you and yours a happy, safe and RV-filled weekend.

click either to enlarge

Over 1000 hours on the air frame ...BMW_X6M

I purchased a RV-9A finished in 2004 in July of 2012 with 193 hours on it. The first two owners barely flew it in 8 years, but the second owner upgraded the panel. After taking my PPL checkride in it at night, and many other adventures including installing a brand new Lycoming engine in 2017 I now have 1100 hours on the airframe. It now also has dual HDX Dynon screens as an upgrade to the original SkyView screens it came with as well as a Garmin 650.

I feel the airplane has allowed me to learn, and has taken care of me during some difficult landings in gusty crosswinds. I have been coast to coast twice and to Canada and Mexico as well as 150 airports with it. It could use a better paint job but I hate to think about the down time to get that done. One thing is that the airplane lands so well, that tire life has been excellent. I'm only on my second set of mains, and have only replaced the nose wheel tire once!
__________________
RV-9A

Sep 5, 2019.  Issue #4,906

14.5 yrs ago...Scorch and Monk on my wing at sunrise.  dr

Blown Starter Fuse

What would cause a starter fuse to blow? It is 7.5 amps in the Advanced Control Module used with a Quick Build panel. It is the older model before they went to logical breakers. I flew yesterday, no problem. But today it wouldn't turn over. Turns out the starter fuse was blown. But why? I examined it and it looks kind of cheap and flimsy. I put in a new one and everything is working fine. Would excessive cranking to start a hot fuel injected engine blow the fuse? Does 7.5 amps sound right for the starter motor? I was thinking it would be a 10 or 20 amp fuse. What else might cause the fuse to blow. I have only 38 hours on the airplane, RV-7A. Thanks
__________________
Steve Lynn
RV-7A

About the caps

Where to Install F-870E-1 ...RV-8

I am working on the RV8 forward fuselage section, DWG 63. There is this one part F-870E-1 that I can't seem to locate where it is used. Can someone point me to a drawing of instruction step that shows where this part is installed?

I am including the screen shot of the part in question.

Thanks in advance.

Sep 4, 2019.  Issue #4,905
  Matt Ziemann stopped by the hangar Tuesday on his way back to Alabama.  Matt's RV-4, any RV-4 for that matter, just makes me stop and smile.  Absolute best of the breed IMHO, and this coming from an RV-6 builder!  Matt purchased the plane already flying, and its panel has that classic 90s-era mix of patina and round and proof-of-enjoyment wear that I find more and more appealing in our busy world.  If the mothership offered a modern-day CNC punched RV-4 with plans like the RV-14 has on the very same day they came out with an RV-Super Cub, I'd be hard pressed to decide.  Seventeen years in so far flying the RV-6 and it turns out the spousal unit has flown much less than I had hoped.  Should have built a -4.  5'10" and 168 lb - I fit.  Fun stuff to daydream about on the treadmill.  How simple and light could you make the panel and airplane in 2019?  A single G5 that weighs nothing and a composite prop.  How exquisitely balanced in all axis that could be!
  Back to the hypothetical thought experiment, I'd order both tail kits of course, and sell the RV-6 when the first one flew.  ;^)

Some more pics of Matt's RV-4, and video

Electrical stuff I don't understand ...Robert D. 6A

My airplane electrical system is based closely on Bob Nuckoll's Z-11 plan. I have a GRT EIS 4000 that gives me voltage. This voltage reading has always been lower than I think it should be but I've never had a problem starting the plane (odyssey PC-625 battery) or running the full set of avionics and lights. My alternator is Van's 60 amp internally regulated.

The other day during a 2+ hour flight the EIS gave me a low voltage warning a couple of times, just briefly. So I decided to finally find out what's going on. The first thing I did was measure the resting battery voltage - 12.6, pretty good.

I then decided to test the 15+ year old alternator. Took it to O'Reilly and they said everything is fine.

Then I started measuring voltage at various points with the engine running. The battery was 14+ volts and so was the reading at the main buss, right at the terminal feeding the fuse block. With no load other than strobes, the EIS voltage matched the buss voltage within .1 or .2 volts.

When I started adding load the EIS voltage went steadily down to around 13.2 volts but the buss voltage remained steady at 14+ volts.

I then measured the voltage at the EIS panel switch. It matched the reading at the buss but also went down when I started adding load.

So what I don't understand is why the voltage drops so much for a relatively short run. couldn't be more than 18-20 inches. Is it something to do with the fuse block? How can the buss voltage remain steady but what the EIS is seeing drop so much?

I'm really not sure where to measure next but am sure open to suggestions. I guess I could measure out to other switches. Or maybe just to where the wire leaves the fuse block - just thought of that. That would tell me if the drop was across the block.

Sorry to make this so long but I'm just trying to anticipate questions.

Sep 3, 2019.  Issue #4,904.
  Thoughts and prayers for all our family and friends affected by Dorian.

sent by user Goretzki

Lord Adhesive Tacky After 24hrs ...RV-10

I finally installed the rear windows on the 10 yesterday. Within a few hours everything seemed to be setting up as you would expect, but I have about a 2" section of squeze out that is still gooey/tacky. This is on the second window, so I would have assumed by then the mix through the gun would be pretty consistant. Is Lord adehsive like proseal where even if it's not mixed well it will eventually cure? Also, all the tubes are fresh, stored properly and no where near experation. Anyone else experiance this?

Thanks,
Lynn

Connector Wrap? ...nippaero

What is the orange tape that Aircraft Spruce uses to protect the wire bundle as it exits the connector? I would like to get some.

Smoke in Cockpit - Can It Be From the Oil Breather?

I scared the c rap out of my girlfriend yesterday. We were getting ready to taxi to the runway, and the cockpit suddenly had an amount of smoke that was pretty noticeable. I thought it might be electrical, but wasn't sure. This was the first time this has happened since I bought the plane several weeks ago. I probably have about 10 hours of flying time in it. I shut down and put the airplane away pending investigation.

Today, I removed the cowl, and checked the engine compartment for any sign of fire. I also thoroughly checked under the panel for any evidence of fire. Nothing appeared burnt or charred. I got under the airplane, and I noticed that the exhaust pipe directly beneath the breather was coated with a significant amount of oil. The oil was not dripping onto the hangar floor, but the whole pipe was wet. I thought that the smoke probably came from oil burning off the exhaust pipe when the pipes started to heat up and finding it's way into the cockpit somehow, maybe through the cabin heat or the open canopy.

Should the oil breather be depositing oil after the engine stops running? This is the only way I can imagine it is got there. Any other ideas or thoughts?

Thanks in advance,

Jim

Part 15 ...Scott Chastain's 'Resurrection America'

2nd of the 12's Flew Today ...mike newall (England)

So, with a change of direction 3 years ago, the RV8 project was sold, 2 12 kits were bought to satisfy my fly buddy's desire to build an aeroplane. He can't get a medical but is a good Engineer and bike racer etc.

The two were built side by side until late '18 when we had to progress one to completion. That one flew last fall, which left us plenty of time to finish #2.

As always, things get in the way and time goes on, but we got it together today and under mostly cloudy skies, the second one flew.

Straight out of the blocks, only snag was a dodgy connector on the oil pressure sender, quickly re connected after flight 1.

About 2 hours done today, 3 left to do, with a 2 hour endurance flight and flight test flight to do. We do 5 hours and 15 landings in the UK with a final test flight.

Once again, just blown away by how well it flew, all the services worked, most of the second hour were on the autopilot as we sipped champagne and shucked oysters.......kidding

Only snag left is a high egt on the right side which I will take onto the specific forum.

I visited the Mothership last month and caught up with the wonderful ladies we all deal with. A great trip with extra benefits and trips out to the Evergreen Museum and the wonderful WAAAM Museum at Hood River.

We are fortunate to be involved with such great aeroplanes and people. Now cracking on with a 14 and a 10........

Retirement at Christmas will help move things on

Dreed's SP Oil Cooler Install

"...take a look at the showplanes mount. It mounts off the engine mount on the right hand side, but you'll need to make different lines I think.

I have one for my 7A with a 390 that I'll be installing as soon as I get the new engine mount from Vans. I mocked it up on my original mount and it fits quite well (hope it fits the new mount) and supports a large cooler easily."

Petit Jean Update: Wait Rooms ...BillSchlatterer

"...Now we are switching to wait listing for rooms at the RCC. Usually, we have several cancellations in the last week or two and fill 8-10 of those but that is no guarantee. From this point on, all deposits taken using the RESERVE MY ROOM PayPal process will be applied to the wait list group in order received...."

It Begins ...ryanflys in Portland

Some Labor Day work today. Ran out of clecos and had to pause to place an order.

Rudder Trailing Edge Mistake ...RV-10

"...Well, by now you probably know where this going. After rolling it on one of my rudder skins, I was none too pleased with the results-- sure enough it made the trailing edge wavy as all get out. Looks much worse than before I started. You can see it in the pics below with the two skins laying on top of each other. The top one was rolled, and the bottom one has had nothing done to it.

Lesson learned, but not sure what I should do now. Should I be concerned about this or will it straighten itself out after riveting? Any way to fix it at this point? I thought about clecoing the two skins together or maybe to a solid piece of angle or something and let it sit for a while, but not sure if that would help or not....."

Charity Cap Sighting ...Anthony RV-6A at a Stones concert.

Sep 2, 2019.  Issue #4,903.  Labor Day.
  Hope you had a nice Sat/Sun and that you have Labor Day off.  Our son Tate came home this weekend for a visit, and of course Suz and I were ecstatic.  Love that boy.  We went out for BBQ, took a picture of it and texted that picture to his sister on the west coast, because that's how we roll in this family.  We rub it in.
  Recovery continues from the Com Multi Add-On checkride last Wednesday.  All that foggle, 1-engine flying in the summer heat coupled with the normal work load of the job - the body and brain got torqued up more than I anticipated.  Thursday and Friday I felt like a hammered turd.  Slowly feeling more normal now - better each day.  This week I just have VAF on the calendar.  Normal flow.  Good stuff.
  The mothership is closed today, but they did post a RV-12 360 formation video on the 30th.  Amazing imaging technology!  You'll be glad you watched it.
  A lot of RV news to cover today, so let's get at it.  Have a nice Monday.

Waypoint Arrived: Greenland Coast ...Paddy RV-10

An RV Returns to its Builder ...hydroguy2

I haven't flown much in several years and all of that was very local in Montana. But tomorrow I'm hopefully going to be crossing the country in my new old RV.

Yes We are buying back Aurora. I will be leaving Simpsonville SC (KLUX) to 97MT with stops at various places in between(1680nm). Won't get an early start so won't make it in 1 day. low tome VFR pilot.

Not sure of my timing or exact path yet. Weather and wind will play a factor so I am looking for easy in/out quick stops between Bowling Green, KY, St Louis and Rapid city.

Hope about some input:
1. multiple runways(cross winds are not a rusty pilots friend)
2. courtesy car if I get stuck or need overnight place...maybe hangar even
3. easy morning departure on saturday (no fog)

Thanks everybody

(in a reply)
It's been an emotional experience to come full circle. Never thought we'd sell.  Kris's health was first choice. She is doing fantastic, but never really thought we'd ever have Aurora again. Tada...Rob mentioned it for sale and still thought no way. Now here I am going to saddle up again. Pinch me.

(update Sunday)
Made it home last evening. Over 1100nm just yesterday with lots of headwind and weather detours. Scud running, squeezed between layers, climb through holes to get on top and plenty of heat and chop the whole day.

But Aurora performed great. It felt like I never stopped flying her all this time.

Life is good.

[ed. Now read the next item below.  Rob made hydro's day, so if you can help out Rob, please do!  v/r,dr]

Last Hoorah! Wanted - RV-8

Well, Brian left yesterday with Aurora (RV-7) and what a great airplane it is. In the end, the airplane ended up back where it belonged and we made a couple of great friends in Brian and Kris.

Now, on my 68th birthday, my son and I are looking for what may well be my last airplane. Everyone says you should put down your wish list so here goes:

RV-8
*IO-360 or O-360 (either one will work but IO gets extra points)
*Glass or round gages but I really like at least a graphic engine monitor
*Great construction quality (I recently went to two years of school and got my A&P just so I could better understand and maintain RVs.
*Prefer painted but would consider non-painted if the seller recognizes there's going to be a price difference between the two.
*Constant speed prop - yes, it must have a constant speed prop
*We probably can't afford a dolled up, maxed out 8 but if the bones are great, we could probably make yours better. (Ask Brian about Aurora).
*Canadian airplanes can work - we've done it before

In short, I'm getting older and after many, many years of my son and I flying all kinds of airplanes including the A-10 Warthog (son) and the P-51 (me) the RVs are our favorite fun machine. We have both spent a lifetime in aviation, love to fly and whichever RV-8 we eventually acquire, we will take incredible care of it. We are reasonable buyers that like to make friends and develop friendships thru airplanes and aviation.

So, if you have an 8 that is, or may be in the near future, for sale, please contact me. We've got an empty hangar that needs to be filled.

Thanks everyone
Rob Traynham

EARLY SUMMER MORNING FLYING IN TEXAS ...chrispratt RV-8

You have to get up early in Texas if you want to find smooth air during the summer. So we did.

My wife and I launched into a wonderfully calm bit of air around 7:30 this morning. Even at 2,000 ft. it was a nice ride as we headed West away from DFW. Nothing special today other than enjoying the freedom of RV flight, some nice scenery, and a quiet breakfast at T67 (Hicks).

Met a young man at Hicks that I hadn't seen in years since my days based at Addison - he's grown into a fine young man, working at one of the airframe OEM service centers in Dallas, and enjoying an RV-6 handed down from another friend. Here's a few pics and a video I hope you'll enjoy. Perhaps it will serve as some inspiration for builders.  ...

RV-14 Annapolis, MD ...ringlasergyrosandwich initial contact

Hello, I am recent addition to the Vans Air Force community. I earned my PPL in March 2019, and have been working on my instruments rating based out of Lee Airport (KANP), Annapolis. For years I've been researching options for home building and finally settled on the RV-14A. My work space will be my detached garage, which has room for two cars and an attached room in the back for most of the work (double door connects rooms for easy of transport). I'm in the process of putting together some wood workbenches and figuring out how to lay everything out.

I recently took an EAA 2-day course on "RV Assembly" so I finally understand the basics of riveting and the tools that are needed to build an RV. I have almost none of the required tools at this point. For first time builders, is it recommended to get a comprehensive RV tool kit from one of the manufacturers on Van's website? Also, why are there so many tools/supplies that are "RV-14 only"? It seems a bit strange that RV-14 has such special needs compared to the other models.

I plan to use this thread to document my progress, share some photos, etc. My local EAA Chapter (571) has several home builders so I plan to discuss my progress with them as well. Other than tools, I think my first challenge will be figuring out how to be home to accept delivery of the tailcone (not ordered yet). I'll hold off on ordering the empennage kit for a little while longer while I finish the woodworking.

 

Airborne Photo Shoot...Krea Ellis

A couple of pictures that were taken yesterday of our RV-7A.

My son and I were flying together and the formation work was some of the most fun I've ever had in a small plane. My son has never flown on the wing before, so it was great practice for him.

Hope you enjoy.

Part 14: The Rock ...Scott Chastain's 'Resurrection America'

Battery box and cabin heat hole size uh-oh ...Draker

Used the wrong knock-out punch and instead of 2", ended up with 2-3/8" lightening holes on the front of the battery box and a 2-3/8" cabin heat hole in the firewall before I realized my error. Rear holes in the battery box are 2". Battery box may just have to be scrapped but I want to save the firewall.

AEROLEDs Press Release

RV8 Smoke System Helper install -- thanks Marvin ...mill2978

I finally had time to finish the install of my smoke system from Smoke System Helper.

I had run the lines and plumbing in the fuselage during the build, but nothing FWF. Once we moved to OR and the project was still in CO I pushed off any work that wasn't related to getting it out of phase 1 and to OR. I have so much fun flying I didn't want to take the plane down for any longer than necessary. Recently I was able to find some smoke oil locally and I took advantage of pulling the cowl for some other work to install the injectors.

Can I sit in your rv9 / is rv9 right for us?

...TazzyTazzy Sacramento, CA initial contact

Hello,
I'm a low time pilot, about 150 hours. I'm tired of the club rentals not being available / down.
I went on a test flight a couple years ago in an rv12. It's nice, but I don't think it's right for us.

Is there any one with an rv9a in Sacramento/bay area that I can sit in? I'm 6'4, and concerned that I'll fit in it.

Our most common mission: 3 day weekend trips and 1 day hamburger runs. There's just 2 of us, no kids/pets. We do enjoy camping at various airports on occasion. Eventually, would like to fly across the country on a 2 month sabbatical.

We would like to bring our foldable electric scooters to get around. They weight about 30 pounds each, but give us about 25 miles of range.

I'm concerned that the rv9 won't be able to hold our scooters or camping gear. Thoughts?

I really would like to build an rv-10 since it can carry anything we could need, but $$$$.

Ground Pic Motivation ...bkervaski

Wallpaper Calendar for September

...Ed Hicks photo.

Motivation Pic ...Colin P. RV-6A

I like to launch extra early, but I am an uber morning person.

You Know It's Hot Out When.... ...Draker

... your Boelube turns into blueberry syrup!

RV-10 wings for sale

...past the QB stage.  Need some love.

So here's how I(we) came up with the price of $6,900.  123 votes were cast in the poll.  If the vote was in the range of 5000-6000 I used 5,500 as the value for the spreadsheet.  I put in the number 5,500 (51) times, then inserted 6,500 (12) times underneath, 7,500 (27) times, etc.  When I had all the data entered I averaged the numbers - $6,971.55.  I rounded down to $6,900.

Comes with a wing stand.  (25) pictures.

Is $6,900 a fair price?  Well, the mothership offers the standard, unbuilt kit for $11,450.  You can order a QB RV-10 wing for an additional $6,325.  There is a 10 week wait on RV-10 wing kits.  So, if you wanted this new we're talking somewhere in the area of $17K.  It's a fair price, even with a little bend in one of the ailerons, a 1" tear in one rib and some rusty hardware on the end that might need replacing. 

60% off new QB.

Email me at vansairforce 'at' gmail 'dot' com if you're interested.  I will forward those email in the order they were received to the friend who owns them.  He'll be in touch.  The wings are at 52F (DFW).  And thanks to all the folks who voted in on the poll.  It helped.

v/r,dr