Lindy
11/9/2007
First things first! UPS did finally show up with my Icom IC-A210 comm radio yesterday! It's a sweet radio that is loaded with features to directly compete with the SL-40 from Garmin at about half the price. I bought this thru a group buy that was organized by my bud John Sannizzaro for RV builders.
Tonight I started by finishing the forward elevator push-pull tube by riveted the threads on the ends. I decided not to prime this tube because it's made from 6061-T6, and doesn't really need it. It's in an easily accessible location, and will be easy to inspect during annuals.
Then I wiggled this thing in to the center tunnel. This has to be done WITHOUT the rod end bearings in place...ask me how I know...
Another thing, I would recommend installing this tube BEFORE the aileron trim system is installed. This was a royal pain to do as you can see...access is terrible!
The aft end attaches to the elevator bellcrank, and is a pain.
Overall, it's a pain in the ass. I'm afraid I'm going to have to take the front end apart because I don't think they are adjusted to the proper length (even tho they are 49 15/16" per the plans). That I won't know until after I get the tail on for good, and can test the range of travel.
I also found that the tube will rub the pass thru at the 705 bulkhead if pressed down slightly. I don't know if this is normal, or if I missed something. I'll find out thru the forums on this one. The red arrow points to the area in question.
Back to the panel. The F-697 "hat section" was drilled to the sub panel tonight. I'm not yet sure if this will be used or not, but I may still put the canopy jettison in behind the panel in order to facilitate ease of maintenance if the canopy ever needs to be worked on.
2.5 hours