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Taking the plunge - a rookie gets started in plans building.

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AB_Summit

Joined: 16 Jul 2007
Posts: 23

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2008 5:27 pm Post subject: Taking the plunge - a rookie gets started in plans building.

Hi everyone,



I've been following this list for almost a year, while researching the possibility of building a 701. I started by ordering the information package, and then ordered the "Metalworking 101/Rudder Workshop" and "Scratchbuilding Basics" DVD's from Homebuilthelp.com.



Last week I decided to "just do it" and I took the plunge and ordered a set of plans from Can Zac Aviation. I was hesitant at first, but after doing my research and watching the DVD's I believe it is doable, even though I have no aircraft building experience, and I'm not even a pilot. 



I'm excited about getting started, so I wanted to share with the group what I've been up to while I wait for my plans to arrive. I started by building a work table, then I built a modified version of Dave Clay's sheet metal brake. Then I built a set of flanging dies on the lathe. I'm almost to the point where there's not much more I can do until my plans get here.



I'm looking forward to learning about the building process from you people. I've joined the EAA, but they don't have a chapter near me, so I plan on joining the RAA as well, since they have a local chapter. (I live in Sylvan Lake, Alberta, Canada.)



I've linked to a couple a pictures below that show the work I've done so far. Thanks to everyone that has shared advice with me so far.



Thanks

Randy

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mwtucker

Joined: 11 Mar 2008
Posts: 16
Location: Charlotte, NC area

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2008 6:15 pm Post subject: Re: Taking the plunge - a rookie gets started in plans build

Hi Randy,



Congrats on taking the "plunge"!  I admire those who go the "plans-built" route!

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Ron Lendon

Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 685
Location: Clinton Twp., MI

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2008 6:24 pm Post subject: Re: Taking the plunge - a rookie gets started in plans build

Welcome to the wonderful world of plans building. Looks like you are off to a good start.

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_________________
Ron Lendon
WW Corvair with Roy's Garage 5th bearing
CH 601 XLB
N601LT - Flying
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Corvair Engine Prints:
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stepinwolf

Joined: 21 Jan 2008
Posts: 133
Location: Canada

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2008 7:07 pm Post subject: Re: Taking the plunge - a rookie gets started in plans build

Randy,



Congrats on your decision to go the plans route.  I have just received my own plans, but since I don't as yet have any aluminum, I am still in the process of getting everything set up for the upcoming build.  The work space in coming along fine, and I have just completed my brake, from the plans ( see below ) submitted by Can Zac. 



Bob the 701 scratch

Three Rivers, 

Quebec

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AB_Summit

Joined: 16 Jul 2007
Posts: 23

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2008 7:37 pm Post subject: Re: Taking the plunge - a rookie gets started in plans build

Wow nice brake, makes mine look pretty amateur. Nice 572 engine in the background as well.

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zodierocket(at)hsfx.ca
Guest

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2008 8:08 pm Post subject: Taking the plunge - a rookie gets started in plans building.

You know some guys can just make art from a piece of metal, that is an

exceptional job on the brake.



Mark Townsend  Alma, Ontario

Zodiac 601XL C-GOXL, CH701 just started

www.ch601.org / www.ch701.com / www.Osprey2.com



--

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TxDave

Joined: 22 Jul 2006
Posts: 168
Location: Temple, TX

Posted: Wed Apr 02, 2008 9:34 pm Post subject: Re: Taking the plunge - a rookie gets started in plans build

Hi Randy,



You'll find the world of scratch building to be both rewarding, and at times, frustrating. I personally really enjoy it. Don't be shy about asking questions. There are lots of knowledgeable folks on this list. 



If you don't have a local source for aluminum and hardware, try to consolidate your orders so as to save money on shipping. If you're not careful, shipping costs can really add up.



Study the Construction Standards posted on the Zenith Builders Web site. There's lots of good info in that file. Sounds like you're starting off on the right foot with the Homebuilt Help DVDs. 



Good luck,

Dave Clay

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kmccune

Joined: 22 Sep 2007
Posts: 577
Location: Wisconsin, USA

Posted: Thu Apr 03, 2008 3:27 am Post subject: Re: Taking the plunge - a rookie gets started in plans build

Hey congrats on the start and getting the tools ready. I started and made excellent progress, built the rudder in about 3 weeks. But I should have made the dies first. Now I have a bunch of stab and elevator ribs and my wife has realized that I NEED to finish the  family room now or it will wait until the my plane flys ... She is right too   So I'm a carpenter for a while   Your going to love it, I don't regret not getting the kit one bit. Though I'd be flying faster, but I'd be missing some of the experience.



Kevin

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_________________
“Always do what you are afraid to do.”
R.W. Emerson (1803-1882)

"Real freedom is the sustained act of being an individual." WW - 2009

"Life is a good deal...it's worth it" Feb 1969
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