Question about build businesses

[scrollF4]

I have a question about the businesses out there that advertise their services to build an RV for the customer. How does that work, given what I thought is an FAA rule that the owner must accomplish at least 51% of the build? How are they able to do all the work for a paying customer?

I ask because I'd LOVE to start my own family RV-based business some day when I grow up and retire from the USAF.

[jaredyates]

One of the guys in my chapter is using a commercial builder to finish his, since he already has much more than 51% done. But I think most of these places aren't following the intent of the rules, even if some of them are following the letter of the rule. It's all fun an games until a few folks ruin it for the rest of us- just like loud motorcycle pipes.

[sprucemoose]

Jared nailed it. Most of them are in violation of at least the spirit, and often the letter of the law.

Now, the RV-12 (and other E-LSA types) are a different story, since there is no 51% rule where E-LSAs are concerned. That does represent a potential business opportunity.

[Danny7]

i dunno, if the faa has checked off glastars two weeks to fly or however long that program is, then a good builder assist can do likewise and still follow their rules. remember, if a guy does one rib out of twenty that counts for his contribution (at least that is how i understand it) Also, having someone there who can tell you how to fix mistakes, give you the best plan of attack, and have all the tools well laid out will cut months off a guy that is doing it solo in his basement/ garage.

remember anyone can do all the avionics and engine work it doesn't have to be the builder

[Danny7]

Originally Posted by scrollF4

How are they able to do all the work for a paying customer?

They are not supposed to be able to do all the work for a paying customer on the airframe. however i believe they can do all of the avionics work and engine mounting

[Mel]

Originally Posted by Danny7

remember, if a guy does one rib out of twenty that counts for his contribution (at least that is how i understand it)

The new checklist has you list a percentage of each task, not just "the task".
Read AC 20-27G closely. It addresses commercial assistance in depth. The new checklist is in appendix 8.

[PCHunt]

Originally Posted by scrollF4

............... I ask because I'd LOVE to start my own family RV-based business some day when I grow up and retire from the USAF.

Sorry to inform you, but if you have spent a career in the military flying jets, your progression toward adulthood is forever stunted. There is no hope of ever "growing up'.

Congratulations! Who wants to grow up, anyway?

[Danny7]

Originally Posted by Mel

The new checklist has you list a percentage of each task, not just "the task".
Read AC 20-27G closely. It addresses commercial assistance in depth. The new checklist is in appendix 8.

Thanks for the correction Mel. That is for all kits now? I mean, is the two week to taxi program still available? and older kits like the rv46789 have to follow that checklist?

and the other stuff i mentioned in the post, that is close to the truth?

[chaskuss]

Originally Posted by Mel

The new checklist has you list a percentage of each task, not just "the task".
Read AC 20-27G closely. It addresses commercial assistance in depth. The new checklist is in appendix 8.

Mel & Sid,
AC 20-139 addresses this issue directly. It might be outdated, as it was released on April 3, 1996. It is titled

COMMERCIAL ASSISTANCE DURING CONSTRUCTION OF AN AMATEUR-BUILT AIRCRAFT

Charlie Kuss
PS I have a PDF copy if anyone wants to see it.

[eMKay]

This is something I'm exploring, building the parts for people that they do not want to build, like fuel tanks. That is a small part of the build and would still be under the 51% rule. Also what about getting parts to quickbuild stage for people, say they send me control surfaces or even wing kits and I build them. I would then deliver them (not ship, personally deliver) Something I've been thinking about.