Hey all...
I'm a first time builder, currently about 600hrs and halfway through a Sonex (tail done, fuselage 90%). Frankly, I'm finding the build a bit frustrating. The kit requires a lot of fabrication, with all the builder error that can generate. I've scrapped or re-built a LOT of parts during the process. I've learned a lot, but frankly I was hoping for a less stressful building experience.
I'm considering abandoning the Sonex in favor of starting an RV-12. I have heard some conflicting information though...some sources have said:
1) The kit comes with all parts completely pre-cut & formed (no more fabrication?!?)
2) All holes come match drilled out to final size and deburred (no more deburring?!?)
However, I read some builders talking about deburring edges and skins, and this has me confused...is the kit deburred from the factory or not? Or is it just the holes deburred, and you still have to smooth tool marks/nicks in angle pieces and skins?
Honestly, if 1 & 2 are correct, it sounds almost too good to be true. In fact, if that's right what is involved in building an RV-12 airframe other than just aligning parts, clecoing, and riveting? I'm sure there's more to it than that, but it sounds a **** of a lot easier than the measuring/drilling/cutting/bending operations I've been doing, and a lot less prone to builder error.
I'd love to hear what your experiences are with the RV-12 kit, especially where you think there are any real problems or difficulties in building the RV, or if you have any Sonex building experience to compare with. Do you feel the plans/instructions are clear?
Thanks!
I'm a first time builder, currently about 600hrs and halfway through a Sonex (tail done, fuselage 90%). Frankly, I'm finding the build a bit frustrating. The kit requires a lot of fabrication, with all the builder error that can generate. I've scrapped or re-built a LOT of parts during the process. I've learned a lot, but frankly I was hoping for a less stressful building experience.
I'm considering abandoning the Sonex in favor of starting an RV-12. I have heard some conflicting information though...some sources have said:
1) The kit comes with all parts completely pre-cut & formed (no more fabrication?!?)
2) All holes come match drilled out to final size and deburred (no more deburring?!?)
However, I read some builders talking about deburring edges and skins, and this has me confused...is the kit deburred from the factory or not? Or is it just the holes deburred, and you still have to smooth tool marks/nicks in angle pieces and skins?
Honestly, if 1 & 2 are correct, it sounds almost too good to be true. In fact, if that's right what is involved in building an RV-12 airframe other than just aligning parts, clecoing, and riveting? I'm sure there's more to it than that, but it sounds a **** of a lot easier than the measuring/drilling/cutting/bending operations I've been doing, and a lot less prone to builder error.
I'd love to hear what your experiences are with the RV-12 kit, especially where you think there are any real problems or difficulties in building the RV, or if you have any Sonex building experience to compare with. Do you feel the plans/instructions are clear?
Thanks!