Empennage
The tail kit, trim tab, rudder, elevator, and the first thousand small decisions.
Build Log
RV-8 build notes, in something resembling order.
Major construction sections, key decisions, and the long middle of turning aluminum parts into an airplane.
Wings
Spars, ribs, tanks, ailerons, flaps, and all the patient aluminum work in between.
Fuselage
The airplane starts looking like an airplane, which is both encouraging and inconvenient.
Firewall Forward
Engine, baffling, cowling, controls, plumbing, heat, and everything that lives up front.
Electrical
Panel planning, wiring, power distribution, avionics, lighting, and continuity checks.
Final Testing
Inspection prep, weight and balance, first-flight readiness, and early test work.
Show Planes Fastback
The fastback conversion notes and related build decisions.
Recent Build Entries
Chronological indexShowplanes Fastback — Lessons Learned
Sixty build sessions, one structural mistake, one instrument panel bent in the wrong order, and a lot of composite work. Here is what I would want to know befor
Airworthiness Inspection!
Inspection by my DAR for special airworthiness certificate ISSUED!
Final Airworthiness Inspection Prep
Inspecting everything one more time. Logbooks. Shop prep. Misc wrap up work.
FAA Updates to Phase 1 Testing - Task Based Testing Approved
New guidance allowing task based testing during Phase 1.
Airworthiness Application
Paperwork for the airworthiness application.
Pitot Static & Transponder Certification
Pitot static and transponder certification.
Weight and Balance
Final weight and balance for N22UP prior to Airworthiness Application!
N-Number, Inspection Panels, & Misc
Installing the N Number, inspection panels, and other misc wrap up work.
Dynamic Prop Balance
Using a DynaVibe classic to dynamically balance my propeller.