Lets amend the SB.
I suggest that all RV-10 builders and flyers with serial numbers write Van's at
[email protected]
I have done the same and have asked Van's to retract the Service Bulletin and offer the latch as an additional and optional latch just as the indicator lights were offered.
I want to summarize what I have heard here.
Issues with the door will arise if:
-Poor door construction causing a bow during flight (Construction error) (Fix: Re-build door or add Van's center latch)
-Pins are not inserted far enough into the aluminum frame (Construction error) (Fix: Re-build pins to extend into aluminum frame)
-Door handle interlock is not engaged (Construction error and/or pilot error) (Fix: Ensure handles are locked before flight, possible rebuild of interlock)
-Door pins were locked outside of cabin (Pilot error)(Fix: Add door check to checklist)
I am fine with Van's offering this as an optional kit but when they say on the service bulletin that it is mandatory, I have a problem.
This is 100% different from the previous SB where we added stiffeners to the vertical stabilizer and empenage.
I want everyone to fly safe and keep our insurance as low as possible, I don't see this as the solution though.
We need to take personal responsibility to build to the highest quality and use our checklists thoroughly.
Any system that is put into place (such as our checklists) is never fixed with more protection devices, systems only work and are improved through training and discipline.
This solution is like adding a fixed gear to the bottom of a retractable landing gear aircraft. It will be there just in case you don't put the gear down.
The warnings lights and center latch should be optional as 100% safe flight can be accomplished with the stock system. I do feel there are may pilots flying safely without even the lights because of their training and checklist discipline. The experimental category will always have construction issues and must accept personal responsibility for that and not burden the whole fleet with the quality shortcomings of the few.
I want everyone to fly safe, have fun and explore this world with their planes and I appreciate Van's offering a system that solves a problem that a few of RV-10's have with the doors bowing as a total replacement of the door is very expensive.
Again, please write Van's and ask for the removal of this SB and make it optional.