Thanks a lot for the replies. Think I'll try the electrical tape idea. I'll let you guys know how it goes once the new HS-707 gets here! Drilling out those rivets didn't treat it too well.

So I'm to the point where I need to rivet HS-707 to the top of the skin. I've tried 3 or 4 times to get the hole closest to the leading edge riveted, and it's just not happening for me. It's tough to get the front of the flange to sit flush against the skin with the other holes clecoed. Got any tips...

Those are great shots!

Thanks a lot!

Thanks for the quick response. So the plans call for AN470AD4-6 rivets for those parts. Would that mean I need a 1/8 bit? Seems to fit perfectly in the pre-punched holes

Ok, total newb here with a newb question. I just started the empennage kit and working on the front spar assembly. The second step says to "Drill/match drill all the holes inboard of the HS-404/ HS-405 rib attach points…) but doesn't specify the drill bit size. I don't see it on the plans (might b...

I've got parts but still waiting on tools! http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l264/johnson81/DSCF0013.jpg http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l264/johnson81/DSCF0015.jpg http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l264/johnson81/DSCF0014.jpg My little helper http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l264/johnson81/DSCF0...

Thanks guys! That will save a ton of work. Looking at some of the other build pics, leaving most of the plastic on looked like a pretty popular thing to do. Glad I don't need to mess with all that.

Thanks for the tips Bruce! So are there specified points during construction that require inspection? Also, I've noticed while checking out others' build pics that they only remove enough of the plastic coating to rivet the skins on and leave the majority I'm guessing just for protection from scratc...

Well, I got the inventory done and the only thing missing is bag 402-1 of rivets. The only damage I could find was a crack in R-911, the fiberglass piece for the tail. Is that about par for the course? I'm ready to get started but still waiting on tools! I ordered the kit from Cleveland but got a em...

Thanks Bruce! Happy Birthday to you too!

Thanks a lot for the tips/advice! I'll post some pics as soon as I get started. Still waiting on a few tools though...

Alright, the empennage kit is scheduled to be here Friday!

Fill out the model and get your signature notarized and send in you check with the agreement. They will assign you a build number which should eventually become the serial number of your airplane. A few people will use something other than their builder nuber as the serial number, but that has a lo...

Ok, I've read over the preview plans and am ready to order the empennage kit! This is probably a dumb question, but the Waiver and Release of Liability Agreement/License Agreement form has a blank where a serial number is entered. Where do I get that? It does need to be notarized as well and sent in...

I have a tail wheel endorsement but I didn't have it when I started my airplane :roll: Therefore I built a 6A. At the time there was significant difference in insurance premuims. I don't know if that is still ture or not :? You may want to check that out before you make the decsion :( That's a good...

Well I really appreciate the replies. Sounds like I've got a while to make the final decision. I'm just super excited to finally get started!

Thanks for the input Chad! That's a good way to look at it; "build what you want…"

I definitely LOVE the look of the RV7 but I've never flown a tail-dragger, don't have my tailwheel endorsement, and just wondering if the extra hassle is worth it? Any thoughts on that?

Thanks for the warm welcome everyone! I'll for sure take lots of pics and would love to start a builders log. I keep going back and forth between the the 7 and 7A. I'll probably end up going with the tricycle gear though.