TitleGarrison
“No bird ever flew nonstop from New York to Tokyo, or raced 15 miles high at triple the speed of sound.
But birds do something else.
They do not conquer the air; they romance it..”
Peter Garrison
HoursAndCounting
Jur's RV7 Aircraft Factory
2917 hours and counting
Some decisions in life are bare of any obvious logic
5. Inspection
Empenage Inspection - 18/08/2011 - 4h
First real inspection of the work done so far. Mr Brotcorne, inspector of the Belgian Aviation authorities (DGLV) came by to evaluate my documents, workplace, tools and work executed so far on the tail section.
The documentation part implies the information about follow up on service bulletings, change parts log, noting down shipments dates of packing lists and the airplane license agreement, providing information on the mandatory modifications and official 'circulaires'.
By advice of Mr Brotcorne, I am considering re-applying for the "utility category" instead of the originally requested "normal category". This means that within the limits specified by the UK certification, acro-flights are allowed. All that is needed addionally is a small checklist for extra tests during the initial test flights.
The workshop inspection includes inspection on the use and availability of the proper tools according to the airplane constructors manual, organisation of the hardware and verification of the certificates for calibrated tools.
Next step was the inspection of the already completed parts of the plane itself.
This was very interesting for me as it gave me confirmation that the quality of my work is according to the requirements. For a first time metal worker, this surely is a relief when you hear you are doing well.
The inspection itself is very thorough and includes compliance to the plans, use of the correct hardware (rivets, bolts...) and quality of the set rivets and bolts (no cracks, no bends, thight fits...)
Although I was sure I followed the plans closely, it is reassuring that a second pair of experienced eyes verified the work and confirmed all is well.
The inspector is really providing lots of information and tips. He will give you the impression that he is merely working with you on the project instead then trying to fail you.
Certainly a welcome feeling.
I was so excited after the inspection that I couldn't resist continuing on closing the items until late in the evening.
All parts can now be closed with solid rivets and after inspection also of my wing jig, I got the 'go' to start building the wings.
Thanks Mr Brotcorne, and also everybody who participated so far to the project to reaching this first important milestone.
Empennage finished shot - 25/8/2011
I could not resist making a temporary assembly of the full empennage section.
All fits nicely soo far and there are no things to report. The rolled edges seem to fit nicely in the back of both stabilo's. The final adjustments and fitting will have to be done once we start final assembly. But that won't be for the first 2 years I guess.
This moment of glory and achievement of the first real milestone leads to the following Van's builders classic shot : You can notice a first preliminary 'RV grin'
In the picture here with my buddy builder Fred Borloo who dropped by to help me out with the final work on the empennage and start of wing spar work.
Up to the wings !
Empennage Kit
How to use
Use the kit buttons in the top ribbon bar to see a chronological overview per sub section per kit. For the full chronological article list, see chronological build link in prelude menu here below. The easiest way to lookup information is by typing in some part numbers or keywords using the search option in the ribbon bar
Caution !
Some advice on reading my log for fellow builders !
In some articles, I made corrections at later date on the original article to rectify my own stupidities or faults. Read through the entire article if you intend to use my findings/experiences on your own project !
Other content
Social Networking
Legal Mumbo-Jumbo
It’s possible (not likely) that I’m not as smart as I think I am. (Occasionally, I have moments when I know this to be true. Fortunately, the feeling passes quickly.) Although I have tried to make this information as accurate as I can, it is not only possible, but also quite likely, that erroneous and misguided information lurks within these pages. I cannot and do not warrant these pages to be error free and correct. Furthermore, I accept no liability for the use of this (mis)information. And, as many would say, your mileage may vary. If, after reading this, you are intent on proceeding, please be aware that the contents of this site are protected by copyright (copyright © 2011 and 2012). Nonetheless, you may copy this material subject to these two conditions: (1) any information used is for non-commercial purposes, and (2) the source of the material is properly credited. Of course, you may link to any page herein. At some articles, snippets of the plans from Vans are visible. These are for educational and illustrations purposes only and should never be used as plans for part construction or assembly as plans may have changed since the picture was taken and more important they are protected by Copyright by the Vans Aircraft Mothership company.