Van's Aircraft has published SL-00003, which approves the optional removal of the F-1054 Tank Attach Angles from existing aircraft. It is at the discretion of the owner whether or not to make this change. At times the attach angle may form cracks, and we have determined through analysis and testing that the component is not necessary. Therefore, owners who wish to do so may remove the part from their aircraft.
It's not often this sort of thing happens, but the short version is this: Analysis with modern design and testing software allowed us to validate during our evaluation of reported cracks that the part was not necessary, nor providing structural value. Whether cracked or not, the part may be removed as desired. This part will no longer be included or specified for RV-10 aircraft kits sold in the future.
It's not often this sort of thing happens, but the short version is this: Analysis with modern design and testing software allowed us to validate during our evaluation of reported cracks that the part was not necessary, nor providing structural value. Whether cracked or not, the part may be removed as desired. This part will no longer be included or specified for RV-10 aircraft kits sold in the future.