Did office work this morning, then covered the workshop windows with clear plastic to try and keep more heat inside. I'm sick of heating the outdoors. At noon contacted MartySantic who lives in Iowa and is also building a RV-12 on the 20 meter ham band. Had a nice time comparing RV-12 build notes. Put out an invitation on VAF forum for any other ham operator builders to join us at 3 PM EST on 14.275. Had some interest, even from a couple of guys in Australia!
Spent 3 hours in the shop this afternoon. Took the VS skeleton apart and touched up the edge deburring and a few scratches, then primed the spots. (Am I getting even more anal than usual?) Checked the fluting and reassembled all parts, this time with rivets. Learned to use the Avery pneumatic puller - it does a great job. Couldn't pull the rivets on the inside of the spar caps because I didn't have the wedge tool that got left out of the kit. Had an email tonight from Van's - they are sending the tool today or Monday. Started on the VS skins by removing the called out excess material with snips, then set up belt sander in vise and used it to smooth the cut. Finished it with the die grinder scotchbrite wheel.
Next session I will learn how to dimple the mounting holes in the skin sections. A new skill every day is my motto!
