Hello fellow builders. It appears in several sections photos that show the forward edge of the top & side skins are bent around the edges of the firewall. Can not find where in the plans this is called for nor do I know the best technique to perform this task. Who out there in builder land knows the answer? Also I suppose the 701, 750 & 801s are similar? Thanks Bill of Georgia
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Can’t say this forum is very active. When I was building my 601 & RV-8 the zenith and Vans Air Force forum were very active, responsive and most helpful. Maybe we are all celebrating Father’s day. Best regards from Georgia, Bill
I have a 601XL and neither of my fuselage skins are bent around/over the firewall. Both have about 70MM of the skins beyond firewall so as to attach the cowl to.
Thanks Glenn, I recall that my cowl fit under the top & side skin of the 601 I built. No, the 801 has a separate steel L angle that is riveted to the firewall face just inside the edge that the cowl attaches to. The issue is in some photo it appears the outside skin extends 2-3 mm and is bent around the firewall edge. Problem I cannot find where or if the instructions direct to do that. Further, I am not sure the best way to make the bend especially along the corners. If it is to add to structure strength I am all for it. If it’s just to look better I might decline. Thanks, Bill
On my 601 the fuselage top skin "rolls" around the tube so may want to look how that is done. I did it years ago but believe I used a block of wood to gently work it against the tube by pressing and sliding it along the edge.
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