That's why I did it. I built it in two pieces and remove the piece running longitudinally (screws in nutplates) to service the fuel filter. But then, I'm no bubba and can work through the forward baggage door.Any issues with putting a panel to cover the fuel pump?
It just seems logical to match the right side baggage hold wall ...
I did this, primarily for aesthetics, but also to run a scat tube from the cabin heat box back to an air vent that allows me to direct warm air towards the backseat. Don’t think I would do it again though because it’s a pain to take out every year during the condition inspection. The location of the rudder pedals prevents stepping on the pump or fuel lines.
J. Baker
RV8
Any issues with putting a panel to cover the fuel pump?
It just seems logical to match the right side baggage hold wall and I don’t like the idea of potentially stepping on a fuel line.
An option for easy access to the fuel pump/filter for servicing, especially if you enclose those parts on the inside. An access panel on the outside is visible in the attached picture if you zoom in a little, right below the NACA vent:
View attachment 33154
I made the opening using a fly-cutter and a homemade jig turning at a very slow speed to cut two large holes, and then just connected the two holes.
By FAR, the best "improvement" I've made to my 8.
Something about sitting on a stool and routing your throttle cable and attending to the boost pump vs diving under the panel is, I don't know, better?
Talked to Van a couple years ago at OSH about it and suggested they make it standard in the kits. He didn't veto the idea.
One of Van's employees is incorporating it into his project, so I think it is tacitly approved. (in between some of the bracing angles, so I don't think that piece of skin is carrying much)
But of course, your plane, your decision.