[Captain_John]

I noticed on the plans that Van says to incorporate what he refers to as "drift", that is to install the horizontal hinge pin about half an eyelet diameter higher in the rear than in the front.

I see how this would allow you to lift slightly forward when removing the cowl and disengage the hinge on the firewall a bit easier.

That being said...

I was thinking of implementing the same technique of drift along the side(s) of the lower cowl on the vertical hinges as well.

If I were to drift the lower portion of the hinge aft it should allow the cowl to drop away more freely, no?

I also think it would make clearing the spinner on the forward edge a bit easier (perhaps).

I don't see any harm in trying this. Do you?

Has anyone tried this and wishes to share their experiences?

CJ

 

[Steve]

Installing the bottom cowl is almost a "need 3 hands effort" anyway. Don't handicap yourself by making provision for the cowl to slip out of position before trying to install the hinge pins.
my $.02

 

[Captain_John]

Steve, That is good advice! Thanks for the reply!

I just looked at a friends -7 and I agree.

Nuttin' to it but ta do it!!!

Thanks!

CJ