Experimenter is a magazine created by EAA for people who build airplanes. We will report on amateur-built aircraft as well as ultralights and other light aircraft.
Issue link: http://experimenter.epubxp.com/i/271000
8 Vol.3 No.3 / March 2014 FLIGHTLINE ZENITH AIRCRAFT HAS scheduled builder workshops for March 6-7 and April 24-25 at its factory in Mexico, Missouri. The workshops are popular with sport aviation enthusiasts who have contemplated building their own aircraft but were not sure if they could manage the required skills, workspace, and tools. During each workshop, participants construct a Zenith rudder from a standard kit. Participants also learn how to read drawings and work from assembly instructions as well as how to identify kit inventory. They also learn the procedures for drilling, deburring, and blind riveting. In addition they cut, fi le, and fi t metal parts. In the end, they have an assembled rudder that is ready to install on an airplane. "The rest of the airframe is constructed the same way as the rudder using pretty much the same tools," Sebastien Heintz, president of Zenith, said. "People get far more out of the work- shops than just a rudder. They go home with the knowledge and skills they need to fi nish an airplane. Most importantly, they learn that building is easy, enjoyable, and something that can engage the whole family. Many of our prospective builders bring their wives, who often encourage them to move forward with the rest of the airframe. With modern technology, aircraft construc- tion has become much simpler than most people imagine." Workshop fees are $375 for each rudder kit. Additional helpers can participate for free. To learn more about the work- shop program visit www.ZenithAir.com . Zenith Workshops Offer Insight Into Aircraft Kit Building VAN'S AIRCRAFT ISSUED TWO service bulletins regarding potential cracking issues for select models in its product line. SB14-01-31 was issued for all owners of RV-6/6A, -7/7A, and -8/8A aircraft—fl ying or under construc- tion—to check for cracking near the bend in the horizontal stabilizer front spar. 14-01-31 : Cracks in the forward spar of the horizontal stabilizer have been found emanating from the stress relief notch at the inboard end of the spar fl anges. Owners should conduct an inspection before further fl ight and at each annual condition inspection until such time that the SB has been complied with in its entirety. SB14-02-03 was issued for owners of all fl ying RV-3, -4, -6/6A, -7/7A, and -8/8A aircraft to inspect for cracking in the elevator spar web near the elevator attach points. 14-02-03 : Cracks have been found near the rivets attaching the nut plates that hold the elevator rod ends to the E-702 spar and E-610PP or E-611PP spar reinforcement plates. Owners should conduct inspections before further fl ight. If cracks are detected, the E-00001A and E-00001B hinge doubler repair must be installed at the cracked hinge position before further fl ight. Van's Issues Service Bulletins WICKS AIRCRAFT SUPPLY has purchased Dillsburg Aero Works' supply of 4130 tubing and has added tons of new 4130 to its existing stock. A variety of 4130 seamless round tubing in full lengths and cut to order is now available. Wicks is also of ering deep discounts on full mill runs for OEMs, designers, and motor- racing industry customers. Wicks is gathering orders for free delivery at the Sun 'n Fun Fly-In and International Expo. Prepaid orders can be picked up at the show. Other items like bolts, grommets, or washer kits, tools, fabric, fasteners, tires, plumbing, and bungee material are also avail- able for prepaid pickup at the show. For more information visit www.WicksAircraft.com or call 800-221-9425. Wicks 4130 Tubing Photography courtesy of Zenith Aircraft Ltd. and Sonex Aircraft LLC E A A E X P _ M a r 1 4 . i n d d 8 EAAEXP_Mar14.indd 8 3 / 3 / 1 4 1 0 : 2 9 A M 3/3/14 10:29 AM