I just have a few minor nits to complete on my panel. I have to mount an ventilation duct and that’s about it for the panel. All that’s left now is to install the new top deck just forward of the panel. I hope to get that done this Saturday and be ready to move on to the wheel pants and fiberglass work.
Days until paint: 18
There was a question on the Yahoo group RANSflyers recently about a tailwheel that would not swivel freely. I advised the pilot to check the pin within the swivel assembly of the tailwheel. He then contacted Matco who advised him that the tailwheels are not pre-greased prior to delivery. So remember to grease your tailwheels when you get them. Here’s a link to a drawing of the tailwheel.
I’ve finished putting the pressure recover wheel pants together. There’s not much work involved there other than some trimming and installing nutplates. I am hoping to finish up my instrument panel on Friday, and then start on mounting the wheel pants on Saturday.
Days until paint: 31
I finished my new instrument panel, now all that remains is to install it in the RV-4 and reinstall all the instruments. I’ll have to re-route on of my fresh-air vents but other than that it should go back in the plane relatively quickly. I’ve also begun working on the wheel pants (covers.) I hope to install these this weekend.
Days until paint: 33
Yesterday I removed my instrument panel from the RV-4. Today I drilled out all the “stuff” that was attached to the instrument panel and will now use it as a template to cut out my new instrument panel. Why am I doing all this? I need to fix a gap that was in the old instrument panel, the best way to do it is to create a new panel. I’ll start cutting tomorrow and try to take some pictures.
The following items still need to be accomplished:
Wheel pants
Flaps adjusted
Instrument panel installed
Front deck installed
Canopy installed
Velcro installed on seats
Gear legs strengthened
Some plate nuts repaired
Days until paint: 39