Request for comments....
 

I'm looking for comments about the attached picture ... I want to have the square tube mounted to the firewall on our RV6A the "pins" will be on the passenger side, outside of the cowl. Do you think this will have an major effect on the flying characteristics? As the pins will be in the airstream ... it will be mounted in the middle of the firewall (top to bottom).

thanks for you input.

Uh, sounds/appears a little unusual if you wouldn't mind the characterization. What do you have in mind for this attachment?

this would be a mount for a handicap lift.

Given your fabrication skills, it would be very easy to dummy up some protruding pins for a quick flight test. Just mount dummy arm and pin assemblies on small, thin flat plates suitable for taping to the cowl/fuselage skin.

I'll fly it on the -8 if you want. Obviously a -6 would be better. Do we have a -6 owner out there who can help?

I was thinking about that ... but didn't want to lose it in flight and have it damage the tail, if anyone thinks it will have too much drag for tape.

but that sure going to be this weekends project.

:eek:

Another thought ....................
 

Would it be possible to mount a receiver or socket inside the cowl, and plug in the lift mount when needed?? Or, screw it in-----or plug in and quarter turn to lock etc.

The access holes can be covered by a snap plug or some kind of door when not in use.

Think along the lines of how a trailer hitch on some cars is done, hidden behind the license plate until needed............

Just something you might consider thinking about.

Good luck with the project.

I was noodling just such a design. It could be made just as solid and not impact the airplane when not in use.

Have you see how they fly the Super Cubs in Alaska? I absolutely would not worry one bit about that fitting. Unless the caribu that you mount to it is over 500 lbs. Then you'll need a second for the other side to keep from flying in circles.

I would of course add significant structure on the inside to support the loads.

Thanks! good idea

While doing a story for KitPlanes some back, I interviewed a guy who made an aluminum hoist for his son. The cool thing was it came apart and would fit in the baggage compartment of his Highlander.

Let me know if you want his contact info.