Author: "David Domeier" <david010@...> Time: Tue Aug 28, 2001 6:23 pm PDT Link
re "Does this mean we will have match drilled ribs on the wing kit?"
It appears so. In reading the pre-build manual, page 7-3, "Although
the matched hole process eliminates the need for the traditional wing
jig, mounting the wing in a stand will make it easier to build."
(What follows is stuff for guys sitting on the fence about which RV to
build)
I spoke with Vans today to set my mind at rest regarding matched holes
- the RV7 kit vrs the RV9A kit (empennage).
The 9 has a straight HS which lends itself to matched hole technology.
The 7 has a tapered HS and it was decided assembly would be better if
the ribs could be adjusted and were drilled by the builder. The 7
empennage kit may never be completely matched drilled for that reason.
However, this is no big deal as those of you building know. The aft
spar is match drilled to the skin saving much time. Ken (at Van's)
felt the additional time to build the 7 vrs the 9 empennage would be no
more the 2 or 3 hours. Having built the 9 tail kit and now
understanding how the 7 goes together, I agree.
Beyond that, I feel he RV7 IS the most advanced kit on the market for
the money and performance. The wing is matched drilled and so is the
fuselage (ala RV9A). It should be a joy putting it together and
hopefully my retirement money and health will last long enough to do
it.
Why the switch from 9 to 7. (have had a few private e-mails asking)
#1, a very good 0360 Lycoming on a previously built flying airplane.
#2, tail dragger itch. #3, the 7 is a better X-country airplane. #4,
the 9 is much, much closer to a nursing home than the 7.
dd