Tip: Firewall sound proofing blanket
 

I've been meaning to post this for a while and just remembered. When you are building you don't think about the firewall sound proofing/fireproof blanket until you are about done. Well this is about the worst time to try to prepare for it.

So, while you have the front end open, or at least good access, make templates for sections of the blanket. If you have the blanket material, cut and test fit now. You will be much happier and won't be bleeding all over everything.

When everything is done all you will have to do cut the appropriate holes and slots in the blanket for the firewall pass throughs and glue in place.

Sure, now you tell me. :)

This is good advice folks. I've left the firewall blanket til the end and expect it to be a major hassle.

I have been working on riveting the fuselage side skins now. I have been staring at the firewall wondering about the issues of firewall blankets. So my question is then, when is the best time to be preparing the firewall blanket? Before the upper forward fuselage skins are placed and the instrument panel is put in? Is there anything to consider when working on it this far in advance?

I have been looking at my FW area, and about to close that up with the upper FWD fuse.

Is the FW blankets worth it?
Has the Vans demo planes got them installed?
Any comments on before and after, appreciated.

Thanks
Rudi

I agree with Darwin. I'd say the best plan is to cut out the firewall material right after you finish riveting the firewall or any time after that. You have to fit it between the firewall stiffeners. Then later after you have all the firewall penetrations figured out, cut holes in the material and install it.

Anyone got a favorite material. I bought some foam soundproofing from Aircraft Spruce for the floor (for under and over the brake and fuel lines), but I'm guessing that's not what I should use for the firewall.

Can I borrow your templates?
 

Hey Dave,

Did you happen to pull templates for yours? If so, I may need to borrow those after you're done :D

Jim

Sorry, no templates. I wish I had some. I think we need to visit somebody with a new fuselage kit and do some measuring.

I ordered this stuff from AS&S:
http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalo...allblanket.php

But have no experience with it yet.

Dave

firewall - wall protecting me from fire
 

The last line in Spruce description of this product may be the most significant. "It is not fireproof and is not an actual firewall material." An earlier message on Doug's website spoke to an engine fire and how quickly it burned the legs of the pilot.

Me thinks I shall look for a more suitable product. Any other suggestions?

I think what they're saying there is that you can't use the stuff to make a piece of wood or aluminum into a firewall. Since the RV firewall is made of stainless steel, I'm not worried about fire getting through it. I just want a material that will cut down some of the noise and heat.

Dave