November 12, 2023
I feel unbelievable lucky to have built my plane before Van’s switched fabrication methods in 2022 from CNC punched to laser cuts parts. Yes, I know, there have always been some laser cut parts (minor things like the engine baffles) but those parts were fabricated by a qualified supplier who programmed, monitored, adjusted their machines correctly PLUS those parts were…
July 29, 2023
Another interesting and fun year at AirVenture, punctuated with beer, learning, and soaking up the experience with like-minded folks. Speaking of learning, thanks to DanH for his training on the Spotted Cow tap and for organizing another great evening with RV builders. Now on to what else I learned: Vic Syracuse (Base Leg Aviation) I ran into Vic while he…
July 15, 2023
Configuration Settings To keep it simple I have just taken a screenshot of every page. If you are using this as a guide you will need to compare my schematics to adjust for how my various interfaces are wired (COM, HSDB, ARINC 429).
July 13, 2023
Firmware Update 1. Power on the PFD into Configuration mode by holding down the “Menu” button while the screen is booting up, or reboot the screen by simultaneously pressing “D->”, “Menu”, and “NRST”, then continue to hold the “Menu” button. 2. Insert the SD card with the most recent software version into the EFIS to load the most recent software…
June 15, 2023
I struggled to find a simple guide to understand the various Kavlico sensors and relevant service bulletins, here is my consolidation of that information. Relevant Links: The issue was outlined by Larry, N38LA (RV-10) back in 2020 on this VansAirforce post: Link The Garmin Service Bulletin: Link The Dynon Service Bulletin: Link The Van’s Service Bulletin: Link Original Sensors on…
May 30, 2023
There were many swear words falling from my mouth as I removed the cowl to begin my annual condition inspection and I saw a lot of oil on the bottom of the cowl (sorry I failed to take a picture) and on the top of the airbox. Not good. It looked like a classic crankshaft seal failure. First call was…
April 29, 2023
It took some time for me to full appreciate how to fine-tune my P200-6X Lycoming P-mags. I’m putting together this page to help others get up to speed more quickly. Information: I have been most please with settings of 23° BTDC (MIN) and 29° BTDC (MAX), but you will want to experiment to determine your optimum values CHT will increase…
March 31, 2023
I had help with the engine cowling during constructions and unfortunately the nose gear gap was cut off center and larger than necessary. So back during construction I fabricated a repair using epoxy and flox. Pretty dumb of me to think that the small amount of surface area (I did sand the fiberglass cowling at an angle) would be sufficient…
December 4, 2022
Like many others I was extremely bummed to learn that Aveo stopped manufacturing their overhead light that had both white and red lights built-in. After unsuccessfully searching for surplus or used lights I gave up and settled on the EyeBeam Mini with white light only. I loved the touch sensitive On/Off and Intensity selection but needed a way to make…
November 12, 2022
My hanger neighbor sold his Husky and while the new owners were poking around I noticed his Minimax tug sitting in the corner. I asked him if was for sale and he explained that it was gifted to him when I got the hanger but it made a terrible grinding sound and didn’t work. And I was free to have…
November 11, 2022
I’ve watched plenty of Mike Patey’s videos showing the fabrication of carbon fiber parts but watching and doing are very different things. I knew this would be a learning project and I definitely developed some new skills. Next time I will be much fast with better quality. That said, I am very happy with the results and improvements I have…
October 14, 2022
An oil change was due making it a good time to tackle a few projects on N241VP. First up was the oil change, I was one of the lucky few who had stockpiled oil filters (filters have become scarce during the past year). I’m down to my last one but it should get me through until the reusable Challenger oil…