Hey guys,
New poster here (although I have been lurking on here for quite some time). I'm 25 years old and currently work as an engineer for a large aerospace corporation. Realistically, I'm not in a position to build an airplane as I have a lot going on (soon to be transitioning careers, live in a condo with my wife, focusing on CFI/CFII, etc). That said, I am VERY intrigued by building and aircraft construction in general. I really think it is something I'd like to do someday, although it is quite intimidating. I have to admit I lack patience, am very obsessive compulsive, and a bit of a perfectionist. I imagine this is probably more of a detriment to aircraft building than a benefit...
My dad introduced me to Vans RVs years ago when I got into flying. His dream plane has always been an RV-9A. That said, I'd much prefer an RV-14A As of now we own a Cherokee 140 together - I suppose it will have to do for now! My hangar neighbor happens to be building an RV-14A (in fact he is about 5 years in and almost finished!). I've been lucky enough to watch him build some of it over the past 2 years or so. Last weekend he showed me some basic things like riveting (with 2X rivet gun and Cleaveland's Main Squeeze), back riveting, nut plates, dimpling, etc. It was a lot of fun! I can see how you could get sucked into building really quick.
Although I'm not in a position to build anything now, I'd really like to start learning more about aircraft construction and building. I'm thinking I might start off with some of the books and videos recommended by Van's:
- 27 Years of the RVator
- Standard Aircraft Handbook
- AC 43.13-lB
- Kit Airplane Construction by Ron Wanttaja
- Aircraft Wiring Guide
- AeroElectric Connection
- RV Builder Basics Vol 1 & 2 DVD
- Construction, Tools, Fiberglass DVDs
I'm also thinking I may do the EAA Sheet Metal Workshop here in Phoenix (February 23-24).
There a million different books and videos I could read/watch, but I'd appreciate any feedback on what might be the best books/videos for me to go through as well as any other feedback that may be useful.
Thanks!
New poster here (although I have been lurking on here for quite some time). I'm 25 years old and currently work as an engineer for a large aerospace corporation. Realistically, I'm not in a position to build an airplane as I have a lot going on (soon to be transitioning careers, live in a condo with my wife, focusing on CFI/CFII, etc). That said, I am VERY intrigued by building and aircraft construction in general. I really think it is something I'd like to do someday, although it is quite intimidating. I have to admit I lack patience, am very obsessive compulsive, and a bit of a perfectionist. I imagine this is probably more of a detriment to aircraft building than a benefit...
My dad introduced me to Vans RVs years ago when I got into flying. His dream plane has always been an RV-9A. That said, I'd much prefer an RV-14A As of now we own a Cherokee 140 together - I suppose it will have to do for now! My hangar neighbor happens to be building an RV-14A (in fact he is about 5 years in and almost finished!). I've been lucky enough to watch him build some of it over the past 2 years or so. Last weekend he showed me some basic things like riveting (with 2X rivet gun and Cleaveland's Main Squeeze), back riveting, nut plates, dimpling, etc. It was a lot of fun! I can see how you could get sucked into building really quick.
Although I'm not in a position to build anything now, I'd really like to start learning more about aircraft construction and building. I'm thinking I might start off with some of the books and videos recommended by Van's:
- 27 Years of the RVator
- Standard Aircraft Handbook
- AC 43.13-lB
- Kit Airplane Construction by Ron Wanttaja
- Aircraft Wiring Guide
- AeroElectric Connection
- RV Builder Basics Vol 1 & 2 DVD
- Construction, Tools, Fiberglass DVDs
I'm also thinking I may do the EAA Sheet Metal Workshop here in Phoenix (February 23-24).
There a million different books and videos I could read/watch, but I'd appreciate any feedback on what might be the best books/videos for me to go through as well as any other feedback that may be useful.
Thanks!
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