Set Canopy Frame Rear Bow Gap Before or After Canopy?

Hi Guys,

The RV-8 dwg 44 shows a gap of 3/4" to 5/8" between the rear bow of canopy frame WD-819 and the top of the canopy slide cap. I bent the frame to 5/8" before putting on the canopy and thought I was in tolerance.

Now I'm fitting the canopy, and the weight of the rear of the canopy causes the gap to close to 3/8".

Should that 3/4" - 5/8" gap be with or without the canopy weight? I called Vans but support is out until around Thursday.

Cheers,
Bob

I believe that dimension is your target for a completed canopy, so do what is needed to achieve it. I remember adjusting that tube several times. Also as you trim and clamp the shape will change, so keep checking it.