Flight 38-39, no more ugly chains!

While I like loose chains when landing, I decided to replace the ugly (and draggy?) chains that keep the rudder and tail-wheel connected with a much neater solution. I also changed out the axle bolt for an axle that allows you to use a Cessna type tow bar.

I have now tested landing with about 6kt crosswind, to taxi is great and I felt no jinx when the tail wheel touched down.I have also used a tow-bar to drag the RV-14 100m to the cleaning place, some day I will make or buy a motorized towing solution!

safety wire

Started this evening with redoing my lousy safety wires from yesterday...

Wheels, brakes, battery

With the Wheel bearings greased properly, it was time to put the cotter pin in, and torque/secure the brakes. I installed the battery but have both poles covered. I ended with moving the engine, I might lift it out of its box soon.

FW populated and some quality grease

Lots done today, many parts mounted on the firewall and the wheel bearings are now filled with AeroShell 5.

Several smaller tasks

Put in some bolts in the spar (end of chapter 40b). Attached the ground strap (chapter 43). Modified the right vent assembly (chapter 48)

Out in the open

Many small tasks done yesterday. I have realized for e few days now that I will not be ably to remove the canopy while the aircraft is in the shop, I need the canopy of for all the instrument panel work, getting the aircraft out when the engine is delivered might be impossible until it is on the ac.

So this morning I made as much room as possible, there are about 2 inches / 5 cm missing to be ably to just roll it out straight. I had to place it sideways and then draw it to the side. This was easy now but it might not be when the engine is on so I will buy some dollies I think they are called later today.

My amazing wife helped me with getting the AC out, removing the canopy and then putting it back in. My two sons supervised us, one from inside the house and one from within the garage.

I now feel ready for engine delivery.

Brake lines

After reading up a little and watching an EAA-video about making flares on aluminium lines, I practiced on some scrap lines and then made the brake lines.

Standing without support

Another milestone!

With chaotic weather resulting in closed roads, I decided to work from home. Got some great results during the breaks. First I measured the toe in/out and I am within tolerances, very close to zero. Then I attached the wheels and was able to remove the supporting benches.