SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION
RV AIRCRAFT
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION
1
INTRODUCTION
SECTION
2
DESIGN
PHILOSOPHY
SECTION 3
TOOLS AND WORKSPACE
SECTION
4
PARTS
INDEX
SECTION
5
CONSTRUCTION
MATERIALS, PROCESSES & USEFUL INFORMATION
SECTION
6
EMPENNAGE
SECTION
7
WING
SECTION
8
FUSELAGE
SECTION
9
CANOPY
SECTION
10
LANDING
GEAR
SECTION
11
ENGINE
INSTALLATION
SECTION 12
COWLING AND SPINNER
SECTION
13
PAINTING
SECTION 14
WEIGHT AND BALANCE
SECTION
15
FLIGHT
TESTING
RV AIRCRAFT
SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION
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NOTE:
Van’s Aircraft Inc. kits are carefully designed and tested. They will demonstrate performance
very close to quoted figures with the engines and propellers recommended. Van’s Aircraft
recommends that the kits only be assembled according to the supplied plans. If the builder
chooses to deviate from the plans and install a non-standard engine or to modify the aircraft to
a configuration other than what is called out in the plans, he or she is assuming responsibility
for the airworthiness of that modification and any effect it may have on the airworthiness of the
airframe and/or powerplant. Technical support may not be available for modifications that
deviate from the plans nor for installations that are not specifically recommended by Van’s
Aircraft.
Keep in mind that insurance companies may not be willing to write a policy on an aircraft that
has been modified to a configuration other than that recommended by the manufacturer. Prior
to modification, the builder should check with their insurance provider regarding this matter.
If a kit is modified in any significant manner, it should not be considered an RV (type) for
registration purposes.
A WORD ABOUT THE PLANS:
When the kits are shipped, they have the latest plans and manual revisions. The plans match
the parts as shipped. Over time, we make changes, corrections and improvements to the
manual and plans. There is no need to request newer versions. New drawings may not
match the parts that you have. Changes of a minor nature are published in the bi-monthly
newsletter, the Rvator. Builders are strongly urged to subscribe to the Rvator at least until the
project is completed.
If there is a significant change to the kit that affects flight safety, we will send letters to all
builders effected. Service Bulletins are posted on our web site as well as published in the
Rvator.