Quick Gear Fairings Question(s) (RV-7)

[AndyRV7]

When you buy the wheel and leg fairings from Vans do you have to make your own intersection fairings? Also, it looks like the wheel pants are already split, do they have the overlapping fiberglass at the seam already or do you have to add that. Lastly, how do you get the gear leg fairings on or off? It seems like they would have to be open at the back and then glued, or maybe you slip them on the legs before you put the legs in the engine mount. But that seems odd because so many people maiden with no fairings...

Thanks!! Andy

[SeanB]

Andy,

The gear fairings are already split on the aft side. You utilize piano hinge to join them. I believe the kit does not include the intersection fairings, so you can make your own. Better yet, look at Cleaveland Tool's website. They sell some excellent intersection fairings that are better than most. The wheel pants are already in two pieces each side and do have the lip. First flights often do not have these items installed for increased drag on the plane for engine break in purposes. It's also simpler to inspect wheels, brakes, fluid systems, etc. in the beginning this way. Adding these items can reportedly add up to 12 kts or so.

[AndyRV7]

Originally Posted by SeanB

Andy,

The gear fairings are already split on the aft side. You utilize piano hinge to join them. I believe the kit does not include the intersection fairings, so you can make your own. Better yet, look at Cleaveland Tool's website. They sell some excellent intersection fairings that are better than most. The wheel pants are already in two pieces each side and do have the lip. First flights often do not have these items installed for increased drag on the plane for engine break in purposes. It's also simpler to inspect wheels, brakes, fluid systems, etc. in the beginning this way. Adding these items can reportedly add up to 12 kts or so.

Thanks Sean!! Very helpful! Andy