Offset hinge line

[Blain]

I don’t know if or why it would be different on a -12 but my -8 was built with the cowl part line without an offset. The hinge segments are visible. I’m inclined to make them offset on this build. Looking for input/ experience from the -12 community.

 

[gasman]

The offset is used to help align the top with the bottom. And avoid the hinge showing due to a tighter fit..... It's a good thing.

 

[rvbuilder2002]

If the hinges aren’t offset from the split line , the hinge loops on the top cowl half are trapped behind the bottom cowl and/or firewall which makes the top cowl very difficult to remove and install.
A secondary benefit is that it seals the small gap along the split line.

 

[Blain]

If the hinges aren’t offset from the split line , the hinge loops on the top cowl half are trapped behind the bottom cowl and/or firewall which makes the top cowl very difficult to remove and install.
A secondary benefit is that it seals the small gap along the split line.

Scott, can you describe the offset? I reviewed the kit manual again and it shows all positions flush.

 

[rockyfatcat]

I read a bit here on VAF where they used 2 different hinge widths.

Buy 2 two different width hinges and use half from one and half from the other. Pretty trick when the cut line falls (recessed) on the longer of the two so there is no exposed hinge.

 

[Blain]

I read a bit here on VAF where they used 2 different hinge widths.

Buy 2 two different width hinges and use half from one and half from the other. Pretty trick when the cut line falls (recessed) on the longer of the two so there is no exposed hinge.

Thats what I was considering. This seems to be a common practice in the rest of the Vans fleet.

 

[rvbuilder2002]

The standard hinge works fine when installed as shown in the KAI
I don’t have plans to look at so I can’t refer you to a page, but there is a section view of the hinge and cowl split that shows how the hinge should be offset.
It does not get offset relative to the molded surface, it’s offset so that the pen is not centered on the split line.

 

[Blain]

So the pin is offset but there is still an opening between the segments when installed this way. This is from the Legacy KAI. Maybe the Is is different?

 

[rvbuilder2002]

View attachment 84482
So the pin is offset but there is still an opening between the segments when installed this way. This is from the Legacy KAI. Maybe the Is is different?

Yes, I think the iS is different.

 

[Blain]

Yes, I think the iS is different.

OK, so the Is gets 1/16" offset. That will satisfy the toothy grin. What about the front to rear taper? Nothing in the Is KAI about that.

 

[rvbuilder2002]

What about the front to rear taper? Nothing in the Is KAI about that.

I do not understand what you are asking with that question.

 

[Blain]

I do not understand what you are asking with that question.

Does the hinge have a constant 1/16” offset or does it increase from one end to the other.

 

[rvbuilder2002]

Does the hinge have a constant 1/16” offset or does it increase from one end to the other.

The intent is that it be constant.