Access Panel Kit

[Reflex]

Quick couple of questions. Will the panels sit flush after the gasket is installed? If so, are the panels thinner than the skin?

I'd like to install this but have concerns about water and getting a good seal.

[jeffw@sc47]

I installed three access panels that are very similar to the Vans' panels that are available now.

An after market fella in Mississippi (or Louisiana) makes them. I put one just off center as the Vans' are intended in OP-43, and the other two - one on each side down slope from the top one's location. The down slope panel goes on an area that has a more convex body curve so was a little trickier. If you intend to install an access panel there I suggest that it be done after the top forward skin is installed because the body curve is in-place; the ones on the top where the body curve is flatter may conform ok when you end up installing the top forward skin panel.

I did not see in Vans' OP-43 instructions any recommendation to doing the installation before or after the top skin is riveted in-place.

[Tom Martin]

My RTV seal lasted 13 years and I replaced it last year as it was starting to get loose.
The seal is simply made.

Mask off outside of opening and anything that will have paint.

Clean and scuff the flange,

Lay a thin bead of RTV on flange and going around each screw hole

Lay a layer off Saran Wrap over RTV, let it extend a few inches past opening

Screw cover in place.

Next day use an exacto knife and cut excess Saran Wrap around cover.

Go flying,

[cajunwings]

Originally Posted by Tom Martin

My RTV seal lasted 13 years and I replaced it last year as it was starting to get loose.
The seal is simply made.

Mask off outside of opening and anything that will have paint.

Clean and scuff the flange,

Lay a thin bead of RTV on flange and going around each screw hole

Lay a layer off Saran Wrap over RTV, let it extend a few inches past opening

Screw cover in place.

Next day use an exacto knife and cut excess Saran Wrap around cover.

Go flying,

I’ve done this same process numerous times using pro seal. I like to add a .032” doubler/spacer to allow room for the proseal and when I tighten the cover down into the sealant I use a straight edge to set the cover height to be level with the surrounding skin. Works great and has been very durable.

Don Broussard
RV9 Rebuild in Progress
57 Pacer

[Ron B.]

Anyone have photos of the access panels installed so I can show a new builder that option for getting to the avionics. Wish I had it on mine.

[JHartline]

Ron,

Here’s mine in progress. Easy install on a flying -14 and access is great in the center section and pretty good on the left/right sides. I replaced my canopy lift struts after installing the access panels. Can’t imagine doing it any other way.

If I was installing during building I would maybe re-arrange a few things to make access via the holes a little easier. I have one or two things I will still have to lay to reach if the need arises. I love these.

[MWH265]

OK, I'll be the one to ask. Has anyone tried this on a 6 yet? I know the kit doesn't include the 6. Is there a specific reason for that structurally?

Thanks,
Mike

[QuixoteAg]

Any reason why you couldnt do this on a 6?

[Ron B.]

Thanks James just what I was looking for. Now if someone had a painted and covers installed photo that would be awesome.

[JHartline]

Since you asked...but I don’t know why the pictures are upside down. The covers lay down really nice match the curve of the skin.

Also, I included a shot of the empennage because I love my paint job.