KitLog pro

Powered By Kitlog Pro v2.0

Jims RV-8
' style=
Date:  6-12-2014
Number of Hours:  1.40
Manual Reference:  8-2
Brief Description:  Rivet Firewall

For the firewall, since the engine side of the firewall has flush rivets the recommended method of riveting is to back-rivet them. However, since the firewall flanges face forward, you have to elevate the back-rivet plate. I riveted 44 of the firewall rivets without incident...and then the 45th got pounded off of the back rivet plate! Dangit...

It made a nice outline of the back-rivet plate (see picture below) and I got a sinking feeling. I sent an email with the picture attached and asked for input. Vans said, "Hard to say what it will do, but a crease that sharp may develop a crack after the aircraft is in service. You could try to remove the dent and/or add a doubler for strength."

Well, the thought of checking the airplane over in preparation to fly to OSH and finding a crack in the firewall, and thinking about pulling all the plumbing and "Stuff" off of the firewall and replacing (or patching it) at that point.... yea, I will be replacing it now instead of later. So I placed the order for another firewall...the $115 (+shipping) is alot - but in terms of peace of mind...it's cheap insureance. Besides, me, my baby (the airplane) and EVERYONE that will ever ride in the back seat - is WORTH IT!
' style=





' style=










Copyright © 2001-2024 Matronics. All Rights Reserved.