I wanted to share this so it could save other builders some frustration and time with the new gel coated fiberglass parts from Vans.
With the new gel coated parts, Vans supplies a magnetic bead system for locating holes .. however, I found that they weren't all that accurate in some cases such as curved surfaces (wheel pants) .. the magnets can move up to 1/4 of an inch making perfect alignment almost impossible.
A local RV-10 builder (thanks Pete ) recommended a construction alignment laser from the local Home Depot Aviation Supply Company ... just line it up on the hole, make sure the airplane and laser do not move, mount the fairing and drill your hole. Rinse, repeat, etc.
Here is the one I use but there are lots of choices - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009O94W3E
I had to make a new nose wheel pant and this method let me do it in a fraction of the time and with near perfect results.
With the new gel coated parts, Vans supplies a magnetic bead system for locating holes .. however, I found that they weren't all that accurate in some cases such as curved surfaces (wheel pants) .. the magnets can move up to 1/4 of an inch making perfect alignment almost impossible.
A local RV-10 builder (thanks Pete ) recommended a construction alignment laser from the local Home Depot Aviation Supply Company ... just line it up on the hole, make sure the airplane and laser do not move, mount the fairing and drill your hole. Rinse, repeat, etc.
Here is the one I use but there are lots of choices - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009O94W3E
I had to make a new nose wheel pant and this method let me do it in a fraction of the time and with near perfect results.
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