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Brian
Degenhardt's Workshop visit
Brian Degenhardt has made great progress
with his RV7A kit. During the afternoon of the 24th many club
members made good use of the oportunity to examine Brian's
meticulous workmanship. They also ate his sandwiches and cakes
and drank his coffee.
When compared with the early kits from Vans
we can see that the factory has made many improvements. The
building process is now faster because everything fits together
so accurately. Brian pointed to the fuel tank fit as an example.
I think he was just being modest because even with the pre-drilled
skins it still possible to get it a little bit wrong. His
fit perfectly.
The main problem with a builder being so
keen to produce a near as dammit perfect aircraft is that
the
empennage is the first task. I suspect that after he had
finished the
wings he was tempted to order a new set of tail feathers.
I could see nothing wrong with the ones he has now. His Airaille
will be hard to top and we will follow this project with great
anticipation.
It is going to be a very well finished and
equipped aircraft. Brian has ordered a complete set of Oregon
Aero seats and upholstery to go with his EFIS panel, autopilot,
Bose headsets, FADEC control and all the little refinements.
The workshop is spacious, well lit and well
organized. It is also insulated and heated because Brian operates
his business at this locale as well.
What
to do on a Rainy day
One
of the most interesting things an enthusiast can do on a rainy
day is to visit a project in progress. Maybe some builders
are reluctant to invite people into their workshops. Every
builder I have asked has been most hospitable and happy to
talk about problems, solutions and triumphs. Every one of
them has also asked for comment or advice.
My
most recent project visits were to Eric Hancock’s Loehle
P-40 ultralight and Grant Haywood’s WAR P-40. They have
the same origin and appeal but are very different projects.
Eric
is sticking to the plans of this timber aircraft crafting
a geodetic beauty reminiscent of the sturdy WW2 designs of
Barnes Wallace. The main wing spar is especially impressive.
Eric has taken advantage of advice he has been given about
careful improvements to the fuel tanks and undercarriage.
It will be a safe and reliable fun “Mitty Machine”
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