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Date:  10-3-2015
Number of Hours:  8.00
Manual Reference:  
Brief Description:  step bolt access, antenna access cover

With the tailcone fitted, drilled, and removed, I decided to tackle several off plans items.

First up was com antena doublers. I purchased two Comant bent whip antennas. Most builders appear to be placing them under the rear seats. I intended on adding access panels to the baggage floor to access the step bolts, and decided to get a twofer and place the antenna under the inboard end of the step support. That way I can access both from the same panel.

Next was to fabricate and install the access panels. Both will do the job, but the second one on the left floor is much nicer. Both use 8 flush screws to hold them in place. The bump out on the outboard end of each is to provide clearance for the step bolt to slip in and out vertically. I really didn't want a hole in the bottom of the aircraft as Van's suggested

Next up was to install conduit under the baggage floor. I installed two 1” ribbed conduit on each side. I enlarged the two bulkhead holes (one next to the step support weldment and the other directly rearward) to 1”. I added one hole to one floor rib (see pics for location). I used an angle grinder with a straight carbide burr to cut the hole after drilling a pilot hole. There was no room to get a step drill bit in there. I added caterpillar grommet to the edges of all holes. I used self adhesive zip tie mounts to secure the routing. There is no possibility of chafing or vibration. I will have to work the insulation around/over the conduit somehow when I get to that.

I also turned a set of static ports out of ¾” aluminum rod. I didn’t like the pop rivet method from the Van’s kit, and also didn’t want to spend the money for the commercial aftermarket parts when I have the lathe to make my own. They fit flush to the exterior skin ¼” diameter are pro-sealed in place and have barbed ends to fit ¼” OD nylon tubing. (update: I was cruzing Matronics and read the static ports should be proud of the surface. I guess I will wait and see if they produce accurate air speed. If not, I'll try again)
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antenna and step bolt access

antenna and step bolt access

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conduit

conduit

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more conduit

more conduit

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