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Better Gas Strut for Doors
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jchang10



Joined: 05 Jul 2006
Posts: 227

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2015 10:29 am    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

I have been researching a better door strut lately without much luck.
Unfortunately, i dont like either door strut from Vans. The 500N one is
too weak on compression or when the door is closing. The door will slam
when about a foot or two open. On the other hand, the 600N does nicely
to not let the door slam shut, however, it is way way way too powerful
on the open. It will literally slam the door open, and it looks like it
will break the hinge bracket out, literally.

I think there must be something better available? Something like the
600N strut but with a slower opening velocity OR that will slow itself
down at full extension. Has anyone else researched this yet? I tried
testing various cars at the airport with a hatchback, but they were all
powered or too weak to tell. haha. Anybody else on board with a better
strut? Unless someone has already done the leg work, i will start
calling the manufacturers to see what the options are.

Thanks!
Jae

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Tim Olson



Joined: 25 Jan 2007
Posts: 2872

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2015 11:23 am    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

I suspect that finding the right one for you will be
trial and error. There seems to be avast difference
between builders. For instance, mine work fine, and
I now have been using them more than 10 years,
and I have fabric on the inside of my doors.
But, I know people who have fabric who's struts gave
up early or don't work so well. And some people I
know only have paint on their doors. So there is likely
just too much difference in weight and other factors
to make it a one-strut-fits-all.

Also, I do leave my plane in the hangar with the doors
opened, which probably helps prolong the life somewhat
as well.

Tim
On 11/2/2015 12:25 PM, Jae Chang wrote:
Quote:


I have been researching a better door strut lately without much luck.
Unfortunately, i dont like either door strut from Vans. The 500N one is
too weak on compression or when the door is closing. The door will slam
when about a foot or two open. On the other hand, the 600N does nicely
to not let the door slam shut, however, it is way way way too powerful
on the open. It will literally slam the door open, and it looks like it
will break the hinge bracket out, literally.

I think there must be something better available? Something like the
600N strut but with a slower opening velocity OR that will slow itself
down at full extension. Has anyone else researched this yet? I tried
testing various cars at the airport with a hatchback, but they were all
powered or too weak to tell. haha. Anybody else on board with a better
strut? Unless someone has already done the leg work, i will start
calling the manufacturers to see what the options are.

Thanks!
Jae



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jchang10



Joined: 05 Jul 2006
Posts: 227

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2015 11:47 am    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

Yes, i totally agree. There are just too many variations in doors. There
are also like an infinite variety and combinations of gas struts out
there. I just dont know enough about the various types and was just
hoping maybe someone was an expert already. Wink

http://www.guden.com/Control/About-Gas-Springs

I found this page interesting. It does recommend storage of the springs
with rod-end down. However, storage with the doors open is probably best
of all, like you say.

I am thinking the easiest thing may be just to find a rubber spring or
belt that is just the right length to help catch the door at the top
before, the strut tries to break it off. Again, a pain trying to find
the right length, force, etc. etc.
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Bob Turner



Joined: 03 Jan 2009
Posts: 885
Location: Castro Valley, CA

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2015 12:01 pm    Post subject: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

When new, my stock struts and doors (just painted) opened a little on the fast side. I attached a pull strap, attached to the door just at one end, so I could hold the strap and let the doors open more slowly.
Now that 5 years have passed, the struts must have lost a little pressure, because now they're 'just right'. I suppose in another five years they'll be too weak.


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partner14



Joined: 12 Jan 2008
Posts: 540
Location: Granbury Texas

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2015 12:58 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

Straps work great.
From: Jae Chang <jc-matronics_rv10(at)jline.com>
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com
Sent: Monday, November 2, 2015 1:43 PM
Subject: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


--> RV10-List message posted by: Jae Chang <jc-matronics_rv10(at)jline.com (jc-matronics_rv10(at)jline.com)>

Yes, i totally agree. There are just too many variations in doors. There
are also like an infinite variety and combinations of gas struts out
there. I just dont know enough about the various types and was just
hoping maybe someone was an expert already. Wink

http://www.guden.com/Control/About-Gas-Springs

I found this page interesting. It does recommend storage of the springs
with rod-end down. However, storage with the doors open is probably best
of all, like you say.

I am thinking the easiest thing may be just to find a rubber spring or
belt that is just the right length to help catch the door at the top
before, the strut tries to break it off. Again, a pain trying to find
the right length, force, etc. etc.
--
#40533 RV-10
First flight 10/19/2011
Phase 1 Done 11/26/2011
do not archive< --> http://www.matronics.com/Navigato --> h &nbsphref="http://www.matronics.com/contribution" target="_blank">http://www=======================


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jchang10



Joined: 05 Jul 2006
Posts: 227

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2015 1:43 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

Thanks for the feedback. Yes, i could add extra weight to the door,
install the 600N strut so the door wont have too much impact when
opening. However, then it will be too weak when closing. The door will
essentially slam down closed. Does your door slam closed if you just let
it go?

Thus, essentially my problem is with the 2 struts, either the door slams
open too hard or the door slams closed too hard. I can't get both solved
with a single strut option.

Yes, i suppose a strap would work, too. Hoping to not need it either.

On 11/2/2015 12:01 PM, Bob Turner wrote:
Quote:


When new, my stock struts and doors (just painted) opened a little on the fast side. I attached a pull strap, attached to the door just at one end, so I could hold the strap and let the doors open more slowly.
Now that 5 years have passed, the struts must have lost a little pressure, because now they're 'just right'. I suppose in another five years they'll be too weak.

--------
Bob Turner
RV-10 QB



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First flight 10/19/2011
Phase 1 Done 11/26/2011
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Tim Olson



Joined: 25 Jan 2007
Posts: 2872

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2015 1:54 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

There's an idea!! Drill a little hole in the door,
and since it's hollow, just pour in some lead shot. <G>
Then as the strut weakens, have a drain plug on the
bottom of the door and just let some out. Smile

Tim
(all tongue in cheek)
do not archive

On 11/2/2015 3:40 PM, Jae Chang wrote:
Quote:


Thanks for the feedback. Yes, i could add extra weight to the door,
install the 600N strut so the door wont have too much impact when
opening. However, then it will be too weak when closing. The door will
essentially slam down closed. Does your door slam closed if you just let
it go?

Thus, essentially my problem is with the 2 struts, either the door slams
open too hard or the door slams closed too hard. I can't get both solved
with a single strut option.

Yes, i suppose a strap would work, too. Hoping to not need it either.

On 11/2/2015 12:01 PM, Bob Turner wrote:
>
>
> When new, my stock struts and doors (just painted) opened a little on
> the fast side. I attached a pull strap, attached to the door just at
> one end, so I could hold the strap and let the doors open more slowly.
> Now that 5 years have passed, the struts must have lost a little
> pressure, because now they're 'just right'. I suppose in another five
> years they'll be too weak.
>
> --------
> Bob Turner
> RV-10 QB
>


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partner14



Joined: 12 Jan 2008
Posts: 540
Location: Granbury Texas

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2015 2:11 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

Strap is nice to let the door up, and pull the door down..(while firmly sitting in the seat).. not sure I would like going back to not having the strap.
From: Jae Chang <jc-matronics_rv10(at)jline.com>
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com
Sent: Monday, November 2, 2015 3:40 PM
Subject: Re: RV10-List: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


--> RV10-List message posted by: Jae Chang <jc-matronics_rv10(at)jline.com (jc-matronics_rv10(at)jline.com)>

Thanks for the feedback. Yes, i could add extra weight to the door,
install the 600N strut so the door wont have too much impact when
opening. However, then it will be too weak when closing. The door will
essentially slam down closed. Does your door slam closed if you just let
it go?

Thus, essentially my problem is with the 2 struts, either the door slams
open too hard or the door slams closed too hard. I can't get both solved
with a single strut option.

Yes, i suppose a strap would work, too. Hoping to not need it either.

On 11/2/2015 12:01 PM, Bob Turner wrote:
Quote:
--> RV10-List message posted by: "Bob Turner" <bobturner(at)alum.rpi.edu (bobturner(at)alum.rpi.edu)>

When new, my stock struts and doors (just painted) opened a little on the fast side. I attached a pull strap, attached to the door just at one end, so I could hold the strap and let the doors open more slowly.
Now that 5 years have passed, the struts must have lost a little pressure, because now they're 'just right'. I suppose in another five years they'll be too weak.

--------
Bob Turner
RV-10 QB



--
#40533 RV-10
First flight 10/19/2011
Pha.matronics.com/contribution" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/connbsp; -Matt Dralle, List Admin.<b-> http://www.matronics.com/contribution
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jchang10



Joined: 05 Jul 2006
Posts: 227

PostPosted: Mon Nov 02, 2015 2:13 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

Haha. I think there is a very good reason why cars do not use gull
doors. They could never figure out the right gas struts to use either.
Delorean and now the Tesla Model X, i guess?!?!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vox78WUVtd8

This is all i want. A non-slamming door without lead shot. Wink

On 11/2/2015 1:51 PM, Tim Olson wrote:
Quote:


There's an idea!! Drill a little hole in the door,
and since it's hollow, just pour in some lead shot. <G>
Then as the strut weakens, have a drain plug on the
bottom of the door and just let some out. Smile

Tim
(all tongue in cheek)
do not archive


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Mauledriver(at)nc.rr.com
Guest





PostPosted: Tue Nov 03, 2015 2:48 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

I agree on the straps.  Having just flown around the tropics a bit, I found that the strap combined with fresh struts allow me to engine start and taxi with 1 or both doors fully open.  The straps allow them to be pulled down while belted in.  The also allow an arm to be hooked in the strap so the door can be held close but with the prop blast keeping a 3 - 6 inch gap.  All very useful here in NC let alone south FL.

Bill "flying with fresh struts and new latches" Watson

On 11/2/2015 5:07 PM, Don McDonald wrote:

Quote:
Strap is nice to let the door up, and pull the door down..(while firmly sitting in the seat).. not sure I would like going back to not having the strap.









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carl.froehlich(at)verizon
Guest





PostPosted: Tue Nov 03, 2015 3:11 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

Be careful.  The door hinges are fragile.  I have a rule that if the engine is running or if the plane is unattended and not in a hangar, the doors are shut and locked.

Carl

From: owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Bill Watson
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 12:26 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors

I agree on the straps. Having just flown around the tropics a bit, I found that the strap combined with fresh struts allow me to engine start and taxi with 1 or both doors fully open. The straps allow them to be pulled down while belted in. The also allow an arm to be hooked in the strap so the door can be held close but with the prop blast keeping a 3 - 6 inch gap. All very useful here in NC let alone south FL.

Bill "flying with fresh struts and new latches" Watson

On 11/2/2015 5:07 PM, Don McDonald wrote:
Quote:

Strap is nice to let the door up, and pull the door down..(while firmly sitting in the seat).. not sure I would like going back to not having the strap.






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jesse(at)saintaviation.co
Guest





PostPosted: Tue Nov 03, 2015 3:42 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

I agree completely.

Jesse Saint
Saint Aviation, Inc.
352-427-0285
jesse(at)saintaviation.com (jesse(at)saintaviation.com)
Sent from my iPad

On Nov 3, 2015, at 6:07 PM, Carl Froehlich <carl.froehlich(at)verizon.net (carl.froehlich(at)verizon.net)> wrote:
Quote:
v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);} <![endif]--> <![endif]--> <![endif]-->
Be careful. The door hinges are fragile. I have a rule that if the engine is running or if the plane is unattended and not in a hangar, the doors are shut and locked.

Carl

From: owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Bill Watson
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 12:26 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: RV10-List: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors

I agree on the straps. Having just flown around the tropics a bit, I found that the strap combined with fresh struts allow me to engine start and taxi with 1 or both doors fully open. The straps allow them to be pulled down while belted in. The also allow an arm to be hooked in the strap so the door can be held close but with the prop blast keeping a 3 - 6 inch gap. All very useful here in NC let alone south FL.

Bill "flying with fresh struts and new latches" Watson

On 11/2/2015 5:07 PM, Don McDonald wrote:
Quote:

Strap is nice to let the door up, and pull the door down..(while firmly sitting in the seat).. not sure I would like going back to not having the strap.









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rv10flyer(at)live.com
Guest





PostPosted: Tue Nov 03, 2015 4:29 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

I realize this is not a flying situation, but the doors were known for flying off their hinges in the air when the rear wasn’t completely engaging. My rule is I check the doors are shut and secured before starting and they don’t open again until the engine is shut off. The vents provide plenty of air for me in So Cal during the middle of Summer while the engine is running.
Pascal

From: Carl Froehlich (carl.froehlich(at)verizon.net)
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 3:07 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: RE: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors



Be careful. The door hinges are fragile. I have a rule that if the engine is running or if the plane is unattended and not in a hangar, the doors are shut and locked.

Carl

From: owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Bill Watson
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 12:26 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors



I agree on the straps. Having just flown around the tropics a bit, I found that the strap combined with fresh struts allow me to engine start and taxi with 1 or both doors fully open. The straps allow them to be pulled down while belted in. The also allow an arm to be hooked in the strap so the door can be held close but with the prop blast keeping a 3 - 6 inch gap. All very useful here in NC let alone south FL.

Bill "flying with fresh struts and new latches" Watson

On 11/2/2015 5:07 PM, Don McDonald wrote:
Quote:

Strap is nice to let the door up, and pull the door down..(while firmly sitting in the seat).. not sure I would like going back to not having the strap.






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Mauledriver(at)nc.rr.com
Guest





PostPosted: Wed Nov 04, 2015 7:52 am    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

That's a good rule and one worth following.

I just can't follow it.  It's almost always too hot to even think about taxiing around with the doors shut in the NC hot seasons.  In KEYW FL with humidity, heat and sun, it can be dangerous even with1500 RPMs blowing vent air directly on the face and body. 

I accept that the hinges may be fragile but I don't see any sign of them being fragile relative to be open when taxiing.  It didn't feel right when I first tried it with the minor flopping around and stuff but I've gotten use to it and haven't found any cracks yet.

Regarding the 'flying off the hinges in flight' issue.  My original build includes aftermarket pin blocks along with the full Vans electrical check system.  Along with all that, this pilot visually checks front and rear door seating before every takeoff.  But that's still short of foolproof  enough for a version 1 door latch so I just added the Plane Around 90 degree retrofit kit.  I already had a flush latch and door lock. 

The retrofit kit is wonderful when compared to the version 1 Vans latch (w/o later mod).  Previously I had trouble using the flush latches to fully close and lock the doors.  I never let a passenger operate the door latch without my hands on it.  Now everything works perfectly and easily.  And though I will continue to visually check the door seating on each takeoff, I haven't been able to close the door and latch without engaging both pins no matter how I or my passenger try to screw it up.  Great kit that!  Now I just have to refinish the interior of the door.

On 11/3/2015 7:26 PM, Pascal wrote:

Quote:
v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);} I realize this is not a flying situation, but the doors were known for flying off their hinges in the air when the rear wasn’t completely engaging. My rule is I check the doors are shut and secured before starting and they don’t open again until the engine is shut off. The vents provide plenty of air for me in So Cal during the middle of Summer while the engine is running.
Pascal
 
From: Carl Froehlich (carl.froehlich(at)verizon.net)
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 3:07 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: RE: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


 


Be careful.  The door hinges are fragile.  I have a rule that if the engine is running or if the plane is unattended and not in a hangar, the doors are shut and locked.

Carl
 
From: owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Bill Watson
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 12:26 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


 
I agree on the straps.  Having just flown around the tropics a bit, I found that the strap combined with fresh struts allow me to engine start and taxi with 1 or both doors fully open.  The straps allow them to be pulled down while belted in.  The also allow an arm to be hooked in the strap so the door can be held close but with the prop blast keeping a 3 - 6 inch gap.  All very useful here in NC let alone south FL.

Bill "flying with fresh struts and new latches" Watson

On 11/2/2015 5:07 PM, Don McDonald wrote:
Quote:

Strap is nice to let the door up, and pull the door down..(while firmly sitting in the seat).. not sure I would like going back to not having the strap.
 

 




 




No virus found in this message.
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Date: 11/03/15


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PostPosted: Wed Nov 04, 2015 8:26 am    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

Bill;
I was speaking more from my perspective of having 2 young daughters that I have at least once been distracted enough to miss a Checklist item, and specifically when hot and everyone tends to want to rush to get up in the air. I simply need both hands on mixture and flightstick and radios to not want to worry about the doors and missing any items on the Checklist. No way I would trust anyone to hold the door open while taxiing,
Although we both have mild winters where we live, maybe a good project for you this winter-http://www.matronics.com/searching/getmsg_script.cgi?INDEX=73537077?KEYS=pascal?LISTNAME=RV10?HITNUMBER=785?SERIAL=0813279166XXX?SHOWBUTTONS=YES

Just need scrap (maybe time for a new cooler [img]cid:2B04E87F58004C6EBA1A8942AA89776C(at)pascalPC[/img] ) I happen to have an old oil cooler that came with my engine so most parts were available.

Only issue with this is getting ice, but most FBO’s I stop at tend to have ice, don’t need much just enough to blow colder air than the OAT.
Pascal

From: Bill Watson (Mauledriver(at)nc.rr.com)
Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 7:49 AM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


That's a good rule and one worth following.

I just can't follow it. It's almost always too hot to even think about taxiing around with the doors shut in the NC hot seasons. In KEYW FL with humidity, heat and sun, it can be dangerous even with1500 RPMs blowing vent air directly on the face and body.

I accept that the hinges may be fragile but I don't see any sign of them being fragile relative to be open when taxiing. It didn't feel right when I first tried it with the minor flopping around and stuff but I've gotten use to it and haven't found any cracks yet.

Regarding the 'flying off the hinges in flight' issue. My original build includes aftermarket pin blocks along with the full Vans electrical check system. Along with all that, this pilot visually checks front and rear door seating before every takeoff. But that's still short of foolproof enough for a version 1 door latch so I just added the Plane Around 90 degree retrofit kit. I already had a flush latch and door lock.

The retrofit kit is wonderful when compared to the version 1 Vans latch (w/o later mod). Previously I had trouble using the flush latches to fully close and lock the doors. I never let a passenger operate the door latch without my hands on it. Now everything works perfectly and easily. And though I will continue to visually check the door seating on each takeoff, I haven't been able to close the door and latch without engaging both pins no matter how I or my passenger try to screw it up. Great kit that! Now I just have to refinish the interior of the door.

On 11/3/2015 7:26 PM, Pascal wrote:

Quote:
v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);} I realize this is not a flying situation, but the doors were known for flying off their hinges in the air when the rear wasn’t completely engaging. My rule is I check the doors are shut and secured before starting and they don’t open again until the engine is shut off. The vents provide plenty of air for me in So Cal during the middle of Summer while the engine is running.
Pascal

From: Carl Froehlich (carl.froehlich(at)verizon.net)
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 3:07 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: RE: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors



Be careful. The door hinges are fragile. I have a rule that if the engine is running or if the plane is unattended and not in a hangar, the doors are shut and locked.

Carl

From: owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Bill Watson
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 12:26 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors



I agree on the straps. Having just flown around the tropics a bit, I found that the strap combined with fresh struts allow me to engine start and taxi with 1 or both doors fully open. The straps allow them to be pulled down while belted in. The also allow an arm to be hooked in the strap so the door can be held close but with the prop blast keeping a 3 - 6 inch gap. All very useful here in NC let alone south FL.

Bill "flying with fresh struts and new latches" Watson

On 11/2/2015 5:07 PM, Don McDonald wrote:
Quote:

Strap is nice to let the door up, and pull the door down..(while firmly sitting in the seat).. not sure I would like going back to not having the strap.








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Lew Gallagher



Joined: 04 Jan 2008
Posts: 402
Location: Greenville , SC

PostPosted: Wed Nov 04, 2015 8:49 am    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

Hey Bill,

I think I have one of these coolers/fans/pump, etc. in the shop still. If you’re interested, I’ll go look. I’m in Greenville, SC ... not that far for a –10, come see us!

Later, – Lew

From: Pascal (rv10flyer(at)live.com)
Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 11:23 AM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


Bill;
I was speaking more from my perspective of having 2 young daughters that I have at least once been distracted enough to miss a Checklist item, and specifically when hot and everyone tends to want to rush to get up in the air. I simply need both hands on mixture and flightstick and radios to not want to worry about the doors and missing any items on the Checklist. No way I would trust anyone to hold the door open while taxiing,
Although we both have mild winters where we live, maybe a good project for you this winter-http://www.matronics.com/searching/getmsg_script.cgi?INDEX=73537077?KEYS=pascal?LISTNAME=RV10?HITNUMBER=785?SERIAL=0813279166XXX?SHOWBUTTONS=YES

Just need scrap (maybe time for a new cooler [img]cid:CE87152DF6F4441D8BFFB5BCBDABFD50(at)LEWDELL[/img] ) I happen to have an old oil cooler that came with my engine so most parts were available.

Only issue with this is getting ice, but most FBO’s I stop at tend to have ice, don’t need much just enough to blow colder air than the OAT.
Pascal

From: Bill Watson (Mauledriver(at)nc.rr.com)
Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 7:49 AM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


That's a good rule and one worth following.

I just can't follow it. It's almost always too hot to even think about taxiing around with the doors shut in the NC hot seasons. In KEYW FL with humidity, heat and sun, it can be dangerous even with1500 RPMs blowing vent air directly on the face and body.

I accept that the hinges may be fragile but I don't see any sign of them being fragile relative to be open when taxiing. It didn't feel right when I first tried it with the minor flopping around and stuff but I've gotten use to it and haven't found any cracks yet.

Regarding the 'flying off the hinges in flight' issue. My original build includes aftermarket pin blocks along with the full Vans electrical check system. Along with all that, this pilot visually checks front and rear door seating before every takeoff. But that's still short of foolproof enough for a version 1 door latch so I just added the Plane Around 90 degree retrofit kit. I already had a flush latch and door lock.

The retrofit kit is wonderful when compared to the version 1 Vans latch (w/o later mod). Previously I had trouble using the flush latches to fully close and lock the doors. I never let a passenger operate the door latch without my hands on it. Now everything works perfectly and easily. And though I will continue to visually check the door seating on each takeoff, I haven't been able to close the door and latch without engaging both pins no matter how I or my passenger try to screw it up. Great kit that! Now I just have to refinish the interior of the door.

On 11/3/2015 7:26 PM, Pascal wrote:

Quote:
v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);} I realize this is not a flying situation, but the doors were known for flying off their hinges in the air when the rear wasn’t completely engaging. My rule is I check the doors are shut and secured before starting and they don’t open again until the engine is shut off. The vents provide plenty of air for me in So Cal during the middle of Summer while the engine is running.
Pascal

From: Carl Froehlich (carl.froehlich(at)verizon.net)
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 3:07 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: RE: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors



Be careful. The door hinges are fragile. I have a rule that if the engine is running or if the plane is unattended and not in a hangar, the doors are shut and locked.

Carl

From: owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Bill Watson
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 12:26 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors



I agree on the straps. Having just flown around the tropics a bit, I found that the strap combined with fresh struts allow me to engine start and taxi with 1 or both doors fully open. The straps allow them to be pulled down while belted in. The also allow an arm to be hooked in the strap so the door can be held close but with the prop blast keeping a 3 - 6 inch gap. All very useful here in NC let alone south FL.

Bill "flying with fresh struts and new latches" Watson

On 11/2/2015 5:07 PM, Don McDonald wrote:
Quote:

Strap is nice to let the door up, and pull the door down..(while firmly sitting in the seat).. not sure I would like going back to not having the strap.








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Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Date: 11/03/15


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PostPosted: Wed Nov 04, 2015 11:34 am    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

I again urge caution.  While you may have successfully tested taxi with the doors open, the “other airplane” prop blast might be waiting to bite.  Same for leaving the doors open or closed but not locked on the ramp when the plane is unattended.

Just did a run out west this summer to Albuquerque and Phoenix.  While warm, once the engine was started there was adequate cockpit ventilation with the doors shut and locked to make things tolerable.

Carl (been there – done that and the hinges snapped like dry twigs)

From: owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Bill Watson
Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 10:49 AM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors

That's a good rule and one worth following.

I just can't follow it. It's almost always too hot to even think about taxiing around with the doors shut in the NC hot seasons. In KEYW FL with humidity, heat and sun, it can be dangerous even with1500 RPMs blowing vent air directly on the face and body.

I accept that the hinges may be fragile but I don't see any sign of them being fragile relative to be open when taxiing. It didn't feel right when I first tried it with the minor flopping around and stuff but I've gotten use to it and haven't found any cracks yet.

Regarding the 'flying off the hinges in flight' issue. My original build includes aftermarket pin blocks along with the full Vans electrical check system. Along with all that, this pilot visually checks front and rear door seating before every takeoff. But that's still short of foolproof enough for a version 1 door latch so I just added the Plane Around 90 degree retrofit kit. I already had a flush latch and door lock.

The retrofit kit is wonderful when compared to the version 1 Vans latch (w/o later mod). Previously I had trouble using the flush latches to fully close and lock the doors. I never let a passenger operate the door latch without my hands on it. Now everything works perfectly and easily. And though I will continue to visually check the door seating on each takeoff, I haven't been able to close the door and latch without engaging both pins no matter how I or my passenger try to screw it up. Great kit that! Now I just have to refinish the interior of the door.

On 11/3/2015 7:26 PM, Pascal wrote:
Quote:

I realize this is not a flying situation, but the doors were known for flying off their hinges in the air when the rear wasn’t completely engaging. My rule is I check the doors are shut and secured before starting and they don’t open again until the engine is shut off. The vents provide plenty of air for me in So Cal during the middle of Summer while the engine is running.

Pascal



From: Carl Froehlich (carl.froehlich(at)verizon.net)

Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 3:07 PM

To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: RE: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


Be careful. The door hinges are fragile. I have a rule that if the engine is running or if the plane is unattended and not in a hangar, the doors are shut and locked.

Carl

From: owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Bill Watson
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 12:26 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors

I agree on the straps. Having just flown around the tropics a bit, I found that the strap combined with fresh struts allow me to engine start and taxi with 1 or both doors fully open. The straps allow them to be pulled down while belted in. The also allow an arm to be hooked in the strap so the door can be held close but with the prop blast keeping a 3 - 6 inch gap. All very useful here in NC let alone south FL.

Bill "flying with fresh struts and new latches" Watson

On 11/2/2015 5:07 PM, Don McDonald wrote:
Quote:

Strap is nice to let the door up, and pull the door down..(while firmly sitting in the seat).. not sure I would like going back to not having the strap.







No virus found in this message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Date: 11/03/15


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Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:

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PostPosted: Wed Nov 04, 2015 12:48 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

I've been following this thread with much interest, and have some questions ....
Is the failure of the hinges caused by the door in motion coming against the hinge travel .... such as caused by a gust of wind or prop blast on an unrestrained door?

How about a door partially open and restrained?

I envision the strap on my door .... used to close it while seated .... with snaps ... think boat tarps ... strategically placed so that it serves as a safety to restrain the door in case of an opening in flight and also to hold the door partially open for ventilation.
I have the replacement 600N gas struts.
Linn .... painting tail feathers, pants and fairings
 
On 11/4/2015 2:31 PM, Carl Froehlich wrote:

Quote:
v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);} <![endif]--> <![endif]--> <![endif]-->
I again urge caution.  While you may have successfully tested taxi with the doors open, the “other airplane” prop blast might be waiting to bite.  Same for leaving the doors open or closed but not locked on the ramp when the plane is unattended.
 
Just did a run out west this summer to Albuquerque and Phoenix.  While warm, once the engine was started there was adequate cockpit ventilation with the doors shut and locked to make things tolerable.
 
Carl (been there – done that and the hinges snapped like dry twigs)
 
From: owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Bill Watson
Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 10:49 AM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


 
That's a good rule and one worth following.

I just can't follow it.  It's almost always too hot to even think about taxiing around with the doors shut in the NC hot seasons.  In KEYW FL with humidity, heat and sun, it can be dangerous even with1500 RPMs blowing vent air directly on the face and body. 

I accept that the hinges may be fragile but I don't see any sign of them being fragile relative to be open when taxiing.  It didn't feel right when I first tried it with the minor flopping around and stuff but I've gotten use to it and haven't found any cracks yet.

Regarding the 'flying off the hinges in flight' issue.  My original build includes aftermarket pin blocks along with the full Vans electrical check system.  Along with all that, this pilot visually checks front and rear door seating before every takeoff.  But that's still short of foolproof  enough for a version 1 door latch so I just added the Plane Around 90 degree retrofit kit.  I already had a flush latch and door lock. 

The retrofit kit is wonderful when compared to the version 1 Vans latch (w/o later mod).  Previously I had trouble using the flush latches to fully close and lock the doors.  I never let a passenger operate the door latch without my hands on it.  Now everything works perfectly and easily.  And though I will continue to visually check the door seating on each takeoff, I haven't been able to close the door and latch without engaging both pins no matter how I or my passenger try to screw it up.  Great kit that!  Now I just have to refinish the interior of the door.

On 11/3/2015 7:26 PM, Pascal wrote:
Quote:

I realize this is not a flying situation, but the doors were known for flying off their hinges in the air when the rear wasn’t completely engaging. My rule is I check the doors are shut and secured before starting and they don’t open again until the engine is shut off. The vents provide plenty of air for me in So Cal during the middle of Summer while the engine is running.

Pascal

 

From: Carl Froehlich (carl.froehlich(at)verizon.net)

Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 3:07 PM

To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: RE: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors



 


Be careful.  The door hinges are fragile.  I have a rule that if the engine is running or if the plane is unattended and not in a hangar, the doors are shut and locked.

Carl
 
From: owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-rv10-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Bill Watson
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2015 12:26 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


 
I agree on the straps.  Having just flown around the tropics a bit, I found that the strap combined with fresh struts allow me to engine start and taxi with 1 or both doors fully open.  The straps allow them to be pulled down while belted in.  The also allow an arm to be hooked in the strap so the door can be held close but with the prop blast keeping a 3 - 6 inch gap.  All very useful here in NC let alone south FL.

Bill "flying with fresh struts and new latches" Watson

On 11/2/2015 5:07 PM, Don McDonald wrote:
Quote:

Strap is nice to let the door up, and pull the door down..(while firmly sitting in the seat).. not sure I would like going back to not having the strap.
 

 




 



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Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Date: 11/03/15

 


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PostPosted: Wed Nov 04, 2015 6:19 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

Hey Lew!

I keep forgetting you are in in Greenville... we fly in to KGMU 1 or 2 times a year to see friends.  Next time I'll try to look you up.

Thinking back to our last trips though, I'm at a loss as to where I would put such a cooler given either the full seats or/or full cargo load we seem to always be hauling around.  I'm really glad I never started that RV7 project.

Bill "wondering what you are building now" Watson

On 11/4/2015 11:46 AM, lewgall(at)charter.net (lewgall(at)charter.net) wrote:

Quote:
Hey Bill,
 
I think I have one of these coolers/fans/pump, etc. in the shop still.  If you’re interested, I’ll go look.  I’m in Greenville, SC ... not that far for a –10, come see us!
 
Later, – Lew
 







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PostPosted: Wed Nov 04, 2015 6:31 pm    Post subject: Better Gas Strut for Doors Reply with quote

LOL! yes Bill I know that feeling all too well with three women in the plane. never understood why they need suitcases for a weekend trip?

From: Bill Watson (Mauledriver(at)nc.rr.com)
Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 6:15 PM
To: rv10-list(at)matronics.com (rv10-list(at)matronics.com)
Subject: Re: Re: Better Gas Strut for Doors


Hey Lew!

I keep forgetting you are in in Greenville... we fly in to KGMU 1 or 2 times a year to see friends. Next time I'll try to look you up.

Thinking back to our last trips though, I'm at a loss as to where I would put such a cooler given either the full seats or/or full cargo load we seem to always be hauling around. I'm really glad I never started that RV7 project.

Bill "wondering what you are building now" Watson

On 11/4/2015 11:46 AM, lewgall(at)charter.net (lewgall(at)charter.net) wrote:

Quote:
Hey Bill,

I think I have one of these coolers/fans/pump, etc. in the shop still. If you’re interested, I’ll go look. I’m in Greenville, SC ... not that far for a –10, come see us!

Later, – Lew






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