What's new
Van's Air Force

Don't miss anything! Register now for full access to the definitive RV support community.

Buying tools verses kits?????

Epsound

Well Known Member
Hello all,

I've been looking at the list of tools recomended by the Vans site for RV7s. I already own about half of what is on the list. So, I was thinking that I would use the list to complete my own set piece by piece. Wouldn't this be cheaper? Would you guys agree that this list is complete? I do want to get a belt sander, band saw, and drill press and I will be shopping for these. However, what else would you recommend (if at all) adding or subtracting from the list that will help ward off the infamous incrimental trips to the hardware store for that 'one little thing'. Thanks for you input.

Cheers
 
Last edited:
Van's list covers the big things, but not everything. I don't remember, but does it list a #12 drill bit? Or a #19? And you may find that you don't really like a particular tool and opt for a different one after using the first version you buy. I suspect no matter how hard you try, you will still be buying more tools, at least little things, halfway thru the project.
 
The Vans List

I suppose you're right Richard. I believe that I am the most interested in tools that will do a great job while adding efficiency to the process. What tools would be the most important for speeding up the build but won't compromised quality?

I didn't think to add the list Vans offers as a reference to my question. Just in case. It's not imprinted on the brain.....:D


Recommended Tools for the RV-3,4,7,8,9,10

2X and 3X Rivet Gun , or 3X Rivet Gun Only **
E-Z Change Spring
Air Swivel Regulator
1" Dia. Flush Set **
3/32" Cupped Set 3.5"
1/8" Cupped Set 3.5" **
3/16" Cupped Set 3.5" (only for fabricating spar)
Double Offset Cupped Set
Mini Bucking Bar 1 lb. **
Anvil Bucking Bar 1.9 lb.
Footed Bucking Bar 2.2 lb.
Microstop Countersink Unit **
#40 Countersink - 3/32" Rivet **
#30 Countersink - 1/8" Rivet
#8 Countersink - #8 Screw
#10 Countersink - #10 Screw
Wiss Snips Left & Straight **
Wiss Snips Right & Straight **
Air Drill
#40 Drill Bits (for 3/32" rivets) **
#30 Drill Bits (for 1/8" rivets) **
#19 Drill Bit
#12 Drill Bit
12" #40 Drill Bit
12" #30 Drill Bit
Deburr Tool **
Cleco Pliers **
4 Cleco Clamps -1/2" Jaws
4 Cleco Clamps -1" Jaws
Pop Rivet Tool **
2 Screwdriver Bits - Size #2
Hand Squeezer / 3" Yoke
1/8" Universal Cupped Set
3/16" Universal Cupped Set
Flat Set 1/2" x 1/8" ** (**2 required)
Flat Set 3/8" x 1/8"
3/32" Rivet Dimple Die **
1/8" Rivet Dimple Die
#8 ScrewDimple Die
24" Stainless Rule
Unibit 1/4" - 3/4" by 1/16 ths
Permanent Markers ** ("Sharpie" Xtra or Ulta Fine Point)
3M Cut & Polishing Wheel 6"
Hearing Protector
Safety Glasses
325 Cleco Fastners - 3/32" ** (** 30 required)
175 Cleco Fastners - 1/8" ** (** 10 required)
Deburring Set - Large Holes
Edge Deburring Bit
Fluting Pliers
Rivet Cutter
Air Tool Oil
File Card / Brush
10" Vixen File
C-Frame Riveting Tool

Optional Tools

#6 Countersink - #6 Screw
Drill Stop Set of 4
Angle Drill Attachment
Cordless Screwdriver (for deburring)
Threaded Drill Set 6 pc.
Back Rivet Set **
Dimple Die Organizer
Removable Rivet Tape
Tape Dispenser
12 oz. Dead Blow Hammer
Recommended Tools for the RV-12
 
Last edited:
EP,

Are you saying you don't like going to the hardware store? I mean, I understand the "convenience of having a tool when you need it" part, but what about the "I go once-a-week, whether I need a tool or not" thing? I don't get it.

Tracy.
 
Oh yeah......

I love going to the hardware store. I could stay there all day. But I know how I am when progress is held up just for one small 'something' that I should already have especially once I get in the groove with a project.

Maybe I could just build it at the hardware store. Now that would be awsome!

Cheers
 
Back
Top