The last two weeks have been filled with finishing details; as we complete the airplane and prepare for the inspection and first flight.
Last week, we finished tweaking the wiring behind the instrument panel and attached the upper forward fuselage skin with all its screws. Because of the possible glare factor of silver headed screws, a mentor picked up some nice black screws that practically blend into the black, wrinkle-coated panel. After securing the panel and upper forward fuselage skin, we bolted the canopy into its position. We added oil to the oil tank near the end of the day and, by putting the oil under pressure, forced it through the lines to purge the system.
This week, we were very excited to receive our upholstery kit. The colors are grey and dark grey to match the grey paint on the interior. Made up of many carpets and cushions, the kit is extremely comfortable and good looking. It is so comfortable, in fact, that one of the students took a nap in the cockpit.
We also filled the coolant reservoir with engine coolant. The RV-12 kit comes with checklists that must be satisfied prior to inspection. These lists include everything from avionics to restraining devices. We were able to progressively work through most of the avionics lists. One of the checklists requires that the builder calculate the maximum fuel flow using only the boost pump located close to the fuel tank. In order to satisfy this, we added fuel to the tank and, using a scale, stopwatch, and gas can, determined the maximum fuel flow provided by the boost pump. It passed the test easily. If everything goes well, hopefully we will start the engine next week.
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