Canopy-Opening Options

David Paule · #1 09-28-2018, 01:41 PM

RV-3s have the choice of a slide-back or a tip-over canopy. On mine, I'm choosing the tipover version mostly to get rid of the viewing obstruction of the windshield frame - which to be honest, doesn't seem like a big deal, having sat in two now.

Still, it's nice to know that my RV-3B, old design as it is, is like the Boeing T-X advanced next-generation trainer in this way and in other ways.

There aren't that many points of similarity, besides pure good looks, but the T-X uses some components from other aircraft for cost savings. Kind of like the RV-4 parts used on the RV-3B, for example.

But there's at least one point on which I hope my RV-3B is different than the T-X. The T-X contract, at least initially, is for $813 million. I hope to fly my RV-3B for less.

On the other hand, I bet that the production T-X parts fit well.

Dave

steve lenne · #2 09-28-2018, 05:33 PM

Just put the little wheel at the back and you have expensive copy of the rv3.

Tommy123 · #3 09-28-2018, 08:31 PM

That little wheel in the back you guys are so proud of doesn?t seem to be very popular with modern aircraft designers since 1940.

gasman · #4 09-28-2018, 08:58 PM

The jet transition had a real problem with it.

TeamFAS · #5 01-27-2019, 10:32 AM

Dave do you have any connections to the T-X program? Wouldn't mind meeting gaining a contact in that world...

ppilotmike · #6 01-27-2019, 10:57 AM

Dave,

I think you should go slider with your canopy, not a tip over, for the following reasons:
- Less likely to lose canopy in flight. Even if you do, the front windshield stays on.
- Able to open canopy in case of a flip over event.
- If you accidentally leave canopy unlocked, it doesn't depart the aircraft on take-off
- Can't accidentally slam the canopy down on a windy day, potentially breaking it and/or chipping paint.
- Best of all, you can slide it back on taxi, hang your arm out and enjoy the "best convertible" on the ground.
- I've looked through the slider canopy on a 3 and a 4, and it's a non-event, as far as blocking your view.

David Paule · #7 01-27-2019, 11:21 AM

Keith, no, I don't.

Mike, you presented the best ideas thus far for a slider canopy. For looks, it can't be beat, I think, but mine will be a tip-over. If nothing else, it eliminates the big cut, although that's small potatoes.

Mostly it's not wanting the bow.

Dave

BillL · #8 01-27-2019, 12:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by David Paule

Keith, no, I don't.

Mike, you presented the best ideas thus far for a slider canopy. For looks, it can't be beat, I think, but mine will be a tip-over. If nothing else, it eliminates the big cut, although that's small potatoes.

Mostly it's not wanting the bow.

Dave

And easy to make a nice compression seal on the full perimeter, if that is important.

scsmith · #9 01-27-2019, 12:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BillL

And easy to make a nice compression seal on the full perimeter, if that is important.

That Bow is a life-saver in an overturn event. If you go tip-over, be sure to have a VERY STURDY bow behind your head.

ppilotmike · #10 01-28-2019, 12:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scsmith

That Bow is a life-saver in an overturn event. If you go tip-over, be sure to have a VERY STURDY bow behind your head.

Dave. THIS! I'm telling you the bow in the front is really no big deal. IMHO, it's good to have such a sturdy element IN FRONT of your face. Big cut is also no big deal. Dremel tool, warm air temps, 5 minutes and done! I can help you make the cut if you want..