KeithB
Well Known Member
I have reached the stage in the Finishing Kit for mounting of the canopy plexiglass onto the canopy frame. After considerable research, I have decided to deviate from Van's plans and mount my 14 canopy (and rear window) using Sikaflex adhesive rather than screws and nuts.
I have:
- reviewed two excellent blogs by Bruce Swayze (RV-7A) and Bruce Hill (RV-9A) on their successful installations (big thanks to these guys for their thorough documentation and efforts at sharing)
- reviewed the manufacturer's instructions
- spoken to 3 builders who used Sikaflex and inspected their planes (RV-6, RV-7, RV-8).
I can see no barriers on the 14 plans/design to prevent using the above techniques, and I see major advantages and few drawbacks (other than you have to develop your own instructions since Van's plans don't lead you through the steps).
Yet ... I have not seen/heard any discussion on the RV-14 forum of Sikaflex canopy installations, suggesting that others have not found this route advantageous. Or is there a hidden problem out there that I'm missing? Or are there horror stories that I haven't come across that might dissuade me?
Or maybe there just aren't that many RV-14s at this stage yet.
Anybody with thoughts or comments before I charge ahead (well, actually it will be very methodical, not charging).
I have:
- reviewed two excellent blogs by Bruce Swayze (RV-7A) and Bruce Hill (RV-9A) on their successful installations (big thanks to these guys for their thorough documentation and efforts at sharing)
- reviewed the manufacturer's instructions
- spoken to 3 builders who used Sikaflex and inspected their planes (RV-6, RV-7, RV-8).
I can see no barriers on the 14 plans/design to prevent using the above techniques, and I see major advantages and few drawbacks (other than you have to develop your own instructions since Van's plans don't lead you through the steps).
Yet ... I have not seen/heard any discussion on the RV-14 forum of Sikaflex canopy installations, suggesting that others have not found this route advantageous. Or is there a hidden problem out there that I'm missing? Or are there horror stories that I haven't come across that might dissuade me?
Or maybe there just aren't that many RV-14s at this stage yet.
Anybody with thoughts or comments before I charge ahead (well, actually it will be very methodical, not charging).