I'm just getting started in all this, and trying to make sure I have the skills to build a plane the way I want it to turn out. I'm an engineer, and I'm picky. I've taken the sportair sheet metal workshop, and I'm working on the Van's training kit. I watched the GBI rudder video. At this point I'm trying to decide how to proceed. I Feel like I'm pretty comfortable with the process that is required to build the tail section. I'm trying to decide if I should go to somewhere like Synergy Air and build my Empennage or save the money, order the kit and get started. That extra $1500 could help buy airplane parts. Just currious what everyone things. Past lessons learned.
Ray
Ok, I am not an engineer. So I am not going to be able to give you a whole lot of calculations for this or that, that would relate to how you should go about making this decision. However, my advice is this:
If you have the tools to get started then do so.
Get started on the construction that is.
If you don't have the tools to get started then do so.
Go buy the tools, then get started on the construction that is.
You being the engineer that you are, and being the picky engineer that you are, you may find yourself becoming paralyzed with how to proceed with decisions throughout this process (and, yes indeed, it is a process, or perhaps I should say, a whole series of many processes). Don't get caught in that trap.
JUST GET STARTED!! The actual act of producing parts and components for your aircraft will drive you toward getting started on the next part or component.
If you are concerned about learning how to do some of the activities you will have to perform, then by all means, get some advice, training, assistance. However, don't let that activity drive whether you do or don't start any of the many projects you will have to complete in order to finish an airplane. Be picky but be reasonable. These RV designs have been well thought out, well designed, well pieced together (by Vans), well documented (by Vans), well supported (by Vans, by this forum and by all of us who have gone through this before you). Use this information to help you to keep going forward. Don't let your engineering training, ideas or attitude force second thoughts about whether or not you can or should analyze, redesign, re-engineer some part, component, procedure or process.
Just get started building!
My advice is that if you are at all competent with hand tools then forgo paying a premium price to go somewhere and have them direct you. Just get started and before you know it you will be completing an empennage,
ah the heck with those French words , the tail. Then before you know it, you will have wings done. Then the fuselage,
dang, again with the French. Then the panel, the engine, etc.
Everyone has heard the question:
How do you eat an elephant?
One bite at a time.
Well, I would say get busy eating!