brad walton
Well Known Member
A dab of RTV was recommended in the trailing edge at the end of each stiffener in my plans in 1998.
A dab of RTV was recommended in the trailing edge at the end of each stiffener in my plans in 1998.
That's probably why the resale value of fiberglass airplanes is MUCH less than RVs. OTOH, we don't really know what's inside that failed elevator, do we? For either fiberglass or aluminum construction, the skill of the builder is critical, I think. I made my choice a long time ago to go with fiberglass, but I certainly do admire the RV series.yes, composites make a strong part unless there are hidden defects.
Alternate view of things.
I have watched the video multiple times and looked at the failure, and I am very much agreeing with Scott McDanials from VANS. This is highly unlikely to be flutter from a considerable but small overweight balance horn.
The pilot maintains there was no damage done while at the fuel pump and the aircraft was in his sights the who time..........this may be true, but so what! I believe this is not when the initiating damage has occurred.
There are two fatigue cracks (easily explained) and one impact point on the underside of the elevator. If I am not mistaken, the line of which is in line +/- a negligible margin with the main gear.
The impact strike that has weakened the elevator would appear to be from a small hard and high speed object. Think running over a bolt or nut, and it firing into the skin, most likely on landing but equally on take off.
Scott.........what do you think?
Alternate view of things.
I have watched the video multiple times and looked at the failure, and I am very much agreeing with Scott McDanials from VANS. This is highly unlikely to be flutter from a considerable but small overweight balance horn.
The pilot maintains there was no damage done while at the fuel pump and the aircraft was in his sights the who time..........this may be true, but so what! I believe this is not when the initiating damage has occurred.
There are two fatigue cracks (easily explained) and one impact point on the underside of the elevator. If I am not mistaken, the line of which is in line +/- a negligible margin with the main gear.
The impact strike that has weakened the elevator would appear to be from a small hard and high speed object. Think running over a bolt or nut, and it firing into the skin, most likely on landing but equally on take off.
Scott.........what do you think?
A dab of RTV was recommended in the trailing edge at the end of each stiffener in my plans in 1998.