Windscreen shroud RV-9A Carbon fiber after market?

[ron sterba]

Getting ready for the windshield install and the fiberglass layup. Buddies of mine in 7s and 9a said they have had people getting into the plane cracking the upper flange by the forward roll bar by pressing on it. My question is there a after market carbon fiber shroud that can be installed. I tried a search from my android phone but I'm finding the VAF "search " column is not working today. Vans building guide looks a little laxed in instructions for the glass lay up, is there a different site that you liked better for shroud layup? Thanks.
Ron in Oregon

[videobobk]

I do have a little experience with a carbon shroud. I have a 9A with a complete carbon fiber canopy, a slider with a built-in roll bar and no frame. (Saved 11 pounds, BTW.) I have seen numerous people really stress the shroud, but it shows no sign of cracking, after eight years of use. I like the idea, and I don't think it would be hard to fabricate yourself. Bi-directional carbon lays up pretty much like glass, so have at it. Let us know how it works for you!

Bob

[rightrudder]

Whatever method you choose, tell passengers to grab the diagonal roll hoop brace when getting in. If they must touch the windscreen/fairing area, tell them to brace with an open hand on the plexi, forward of the fairing.

[airguy]

I put handles through the roll bar, able to hold full body weight to eliminate the need to put pressure on the windscreen lip.

[BillL]

The early kits did not have the detailed instructions on many things.

Look on Vans website for the help videos on the RV14, there is a series where Scott prepares and does the canopy glassing. Very nice work, a lot more detailed than I had expected, just seeing it changed the way I do glass now.

Sorry, I will add a link when I find it. OK - 4 videos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVEE...zuZCXn5TXngVlY

[ron sterba]

Thanks Doug, hey that sounds pretty special, launch next month,that use to be my line however you have a 2016. Good going buddy! I'll take that advise on the hand placement. Thx
Ron in Oregon

[ron sterba]

Hi Greg, Now I see them on vans website. Good idea, next week for sure. Are the handles pretty durable?

Ron in Oregon

[ron sterba]

Bill I got to say I watched all four video segments. That man has a lot of knowledge. Project was well detailed and I learned a lot! Thanks so much. Not sure how the sides and the top play out shape wise on my 9a but definitely feel pretty good about taking on the task.

Ron Sterba in Oregon

[sjhurlbut]

Originally Posted by ron sterba

they have had people getting into the plane cracking the upper flange by the forward roll bar by pressing on it.

Yup. That is why on RV #5 I eliminated that fairing all together. A perfect but joint between windshield and canopy and a rubber seal. I think it looks better as well. Carbon fibre is going to be no different - people will grab and kick it and they get in and out.

If I can do it on a 6 you can do it on a 7/9.

Install the handles to get in and out and you're golden.

[airguy]

Originally Posted by ron sterba

Hi Greg, Now I see them on vans website. Good idea, next week for sure. Are the handles pretty durable?

Ron in Oregon

I'm about 185, my uncle is about 225, we've both been in and out of the airplane more times that I can count using them, they are very durable. You have to be careful when you install them, for placement and angle to make sure you will clear your canopy and latch, but the actual install was a snap. Essentially you drill a large hole in the aft of the roll bar for the handle itself to pass through to the inside, and where it meets the forward inside edge of the roll bar you punch a small hole to run a screw in, through the rollbar and into the handle. This pins the handle and gives you 4 load points (2 screws, and 2 contact points in the aft holes) to spread your load. It also gives a very short lever arm on the handle itself which makes them very strong.