Just did the same
Kev,
I just did the replacement on a 1992 RV-6, which is possibly the worst possible swap since there were no quick build kits back then, plus the current mounts are all drilled and jigged at the factory. It was not as bad as you may think although your experience may vary as every RV is different. Here a summary:
If you have a 6 you will need to support the plane. I used a wing jack at the tie down bolt locations and it worked well for me. I also heard of someone who used straps to hold the fuselage from the ceiling. Once lifted, remove the gear bolts and pull the gear legs out. Depending on the age of your plane you may need to convince it, using your choice of beating tool. If your plane has an old mount you will need new gear legs as they now come pre-drilled from the factory.
Removing the old mount was a non issue. Take out the old bolts and it will come right out. you will need to wiggle it a bit to get the flanges that sit flush with the firewall past the piano hinges and any rivers.
Putting the new mount back is the tricky part as the holes on the firewall were drilled based on the original mount and vans has over the years changed jigs a few times. In my plane, 3 of the holes lined up sufficiently for the bolts to slide in (with some help). The one on the top passenger side was the worst with the hole being 1/2 dia. out of alignment. We were able to bring it back in line by using a strap around the mount to pull that corner of the mount in (the mount is pretty flexible). The two small bolts on the bottom were the last ones we installed both looked pretty good. We were able to push the bolts from inside out (per the plans) but have heard that others found better luck pushing them from the outside in.
The pre-drilled gear legs went in like butter and alignment was perfect. You will need to drill the cotter pin hole for the axle. I used a straight flute carbide drill on a drill press with some bowl lube and it was an easy job.
Don't be surprised if the motor moves from where it once was. Mine moved forward 1/2". Called vans and they assured me this can happen given that the jigs have changed and gotten better over the years. And yes, I triple checked that all the lord mounts were properly bolted. Luckily the fairing and wiring were long enough.
If you decide to take on the job give me a call and I'll give you more details 407-808-1791. I'm eager to pay back this awesome community with some help
![Big grin :D :D](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)