Alex's Vans RV-10 Build Log

Having received a replacement E-919 elevator trim tab skin from Van's (to replace the one I had accidentally creased while bending the tabs) as well as replacement trim tab spars (as the original ones had been laser cut), I proceeded to debur the edges and holes of these parts, and mask off and scuff the foam rib locations in the skin. I eventually got around to priming the replacement trim tab skin, and could now continue with bending of the tab, hopefully learning from previous errors. I'll post separately on the techniques I used for trim tab bending, but after some experimenting, I was able to successfully bend all 8 end tabs at the exact locations specified in the plans. Each bend also had a nice 1/16" radius to ensure the skin won't crack. Both trim tabs with end tabs bent to 90 degrees Next I used another homemade tool to ensure that the trailing edge of the trims tabs was evenly creased with no bulging across the trim tab. The homemade bender (described in sect...

While I had some free time, I decided to put together the Control Approach rudder pedals that I had purchased and received at the start of the year.  Paul at Control Approach does offer fully assembled pedals for purchase, and I believe that may be the default option when purchasing a set today, but when I ordered in January I decided to save a few bucks and assemble them myself.  I am also using Beringer brakes and wheels, so I had to incorporate attaching the master cylinders to the rudder pedal assembly, along with the correct fittings. Prior to assembly - identify and layout all parts needed The instructions provided for assembly were quite comprehensive and included several color photos that helped clarify the step-by-step process outlined in the text. I did, however, read through the instructions a few times before beginning assembly to make sure I fully understood each step and identified the correct parts to be used. The first step in assembly involves attaching the fl...