Dave’s RV-7A Building Log

I drilled the spacers for the canopy hinge point following the instructions. It’s a complicated process of clamping together parts, starting a pilot hole, drilling on the drill press, etc. After I did that, I remembered another RV builder suggesting I try Jeff Bordelon’s method for drilling the hinge points. A few builders, Dan included, have had edge distance problems after drilling the fingers that come out of the canopy frame. Jeff’s approach solves that problem. Unfortunately, I’m already past the point of being able to use his method. I might be able to adjust the 1/4″ hole, so I’ll put off drilling that hole for a while.

I spent a little bit of time dipping into the finishing kit, finally. I pulled out some stock for the spacers that go in the hinge points and cut a couple of pieces to size.

Inventoried all of the hardware for the finish kit.

I didn’t keep track of time too well today, but I spent a bunch of time inventorying and moving parts around. Julie helped me re-arrange the spare bedroom so now the wings, canopy, engine mount, and cowl halves fit in there. The rest of the finish kit parts are on the shelves. Nothing was missing. As before, it’s fun to unpack the crate and see the cool parts, wheels, brakes, nose fork, etc.

The finish kit made it in one piece. I love getting big boxes from Vans. It will be a few weeks before I’m ready to dive into these parts, but I had to take a peek inside.

Van’s sent confirmation of my Finish Kit order. It’s scheduled to ship the week of May 9th. That would be just about the 10 week lead time advertised on Van’s web site.

Also, when I placed my order I was contemplating using a Whirlwind propeller, so I marked the “no spinner” box. What I didn’t realize is that if I later want to add a spinner, it will cost more than if I include it in the kit. I’m 95% certain I’ll use a certified Hartzell prop, so I asked Van’s to add the constant-speed spinner kit back onto the order.

Mailed off the order form for the Finishing Kit!