Looking for Builder Assist - Slider Canopy for RV-9A

[jerry98b]

I am in Lubbock, TX building a slow-build RV-9A just starting on the slider canopy. I had everything lined out for the local EAA tech advisor to help we with my canopy, but he now is unavailable.

I have spoken with Jay Pratt in the DFW area, but I wanted to see if there is any techs or builder assist services in the Lubbock/Amarillo/Midland or closer area to help or that I can commission to do the canopy on my build.

I can just muddle through this alone, but I have more concern about messing something up as a first time builder and then having possible issues getting replacement parts from Van's. Thanks!

 

[lumber214]

Jerry I can relate.....I am also at the "Canopy Installation Challenge " on my build of a 7A slider. I am in the DFW area and reaching out to friends with RV's to see if I can locate someone who will to at least point and say "I wouldn't do THAT!!!" before I learn and expensive lesson...
Plus If by chance someone in the DFW area sees this post message me at 214-384-6019 with any help or ideas
Im sure between the two of us we can locate someone...Good luck Ill let you know if I find someone in that area!!

 

[Desert Rat]

Hey guys- I'm sure everybody who's gone through this feels your pain. The canopy is a lot of work, and yeah, frankly it was the most un-fun part of the whole build, but there's nothing mysterious about it. It just takes time.

I tried to document the process pretty well in my build log if that helps. If you have specific questions, shoot me a pm with your phone number and I'm happy to talk about it. I'm up the road in Wichita.

 

[wirejock]

The only "don't" I would share is don't install the roll bar brace until the canopy is done. The reason is the canopy weldment may not end up 90 degrees to the longerons. Waiting allows you to shim the roll bar so the two are matched. It's only a degree or two but that's a totally different position for the roll bar brace.

I wrote an article for Kitplanes if you need tips.