True Build Times??

AndyRV7 · #1 10-16-2009, 02:19 PM

I was wondering if I could get some quick opinions on true build times. The build would be a slow build 7 (hopefully not that slow!), with no paint. I would be a first-timer. In my mind, I am capable enough to get through a build (not a pro but not I have some mechanical skills. I am certainly not afraid of tools.). I can see having to slow down at certain points though, like panel/electrical, which I have no experience with.

I've tried to read as many of the first flight stories on the Van's site as I can, but most people don't describe their prior experience or whether they went with a QB or standard kit, or even if they did their own panel or not.

Obviously this might be a pretty wide range of times, but I am hoping to get a little better grasp of your experiences in the real world.

Thanks!

apkp777 · #2 10-16-2009, 02:57 PM

Hoping to have in done by 800 hours total slow (not QB) build.

AndyRV7 · #3 10-16-2009, 03:04 PM

If I were you I would build 2!!

tinman · #4 10-16-2009, 03:06 PM

Plan on at least 2,000 hours. It took me about 2500 hours, but I am slow.

apkp777 · #5 10-16-2009, 03:12 PM

There are lot's of tricks to cut build times significantly. I think if I built another I could shave 10% or more off where I am at right now.

I don't really know how much time I have left, but I have 504 hours into it so far.

I admit, I don't enjoy the building as much as other do. I don't fool around, I just knock stuff out. It helps that I worked structures for Boeing and United Airlines for many years.

twsurveyor · #6 10-16-2009, 03:12 PM

I have 4 friends that have completed side by sides (slow builds) recently. All work for a living, hence all are "part time builders".

Don't know the average "hours" but surmize it to say that the average was 4 years, start to finish, for these 4 dudes.

By the way, it's just wrong to refer to the new prepunched kits as "slow builds"!

Tommy Walker
RV-6A (true slow build)
Flying, 470 hours and "Climbing!"

schristo@mac.com · #7 10-16-2009, 03:12 PM

There is a lot if variation in tracking hours. I have recorded and allocated actual shop or hangar time omitting travel, computer, research, investigation, and other head scratching conducted away from tools. This time can be extensive. I am closing in on 1,200 hours now and suspect another 400 or so to be ready for first flight without leg fairings or pants.

apkp777 · #8 10-16-2009, 03:17 PM

Yeah the prepunched skins are awesome. You RV 6 (and older kits) guys have a lot more work than mine.

I don't track the hours spent researching (and blogging). I do round up to the next hour though (3.2 hrs =4) to sort of account for the time I spend staring at the project in my pajamas.

AndyRV7 · #9 10-16-2009, 03:23 PM

OK, I am starting to feel better. I figured I would be a slow builder because I study things a lot and then go step by step. Pretty methodical by nature. I figured if 2000 was the Vans number I would be 2500-2800. But I was worried that that actually might be 4000. But I haven't seen anyone claim that long of a build, so I feel a little better.

I agree in theory with the head-scratching idea. I can imagine a lot of time in the house trying to figure things out.

apkp777 · #10 10-16-2009, 03:32 PM

You can save a ton of time by studying the whole set of plans and drawings and working it out in your head how everything goes together.

When I get a chance I will post some of the things I have done to cut my build time significantly.

For now, plan on having a complete set of tools, buy one of EVERYTHING and two of MOST. You can always sell the stuff later.

When I worked for Boeing I would always have at least 4 drills chucked, 2 or 3 rivet guns, and several pairs of cleco pliers. You would be surprised how much time is spent changing drill bits.

If I built another I would make all the brackets and angles for the entire kit all at the same time, mark them and have them ready when the time came to assemble them.