Main gear install RV7A

[gsimatos]

I am going to install the main gear weldments shortly and i see from many of the builder sites that the bolts provided are sometimes a little short, I believe they are AN3-12 and some forlks find the AN3-13 are better. Has anyone managed with the -12 bolts? I gotta order some stuff from Vans shortly so I am wondering if I should include these bolts Thanks G

[brian]

you should replace the 12s with 13s

there are not enough threads showing thru the nut with 12s

bolt length:
http://www.meyette.us/FuselageAug03.htm#aug22

see also:
http://www.meyette.us/April03fuse2.htm

and

http://www.meyette.us/June03fuse.htm

Be sure to note my warnings about drilling out the weldment holes, as well as not bolting the weldment up until you have your plumbing lines in

brian

[TomC]

I would order 12-15 extra of all the common AN3 bolt sizes. As you move through the finishing kit, there will be many times when the bolt callouts are a little short. Since the bolts are relatively cheap compared with the shipping, just go ahead and get the extras now. I had many times when I had to walk from the hanger to the nearby FBO/service shop and beg some AN3-10A bolts.

Good Luck

[gsimatos]

Thanks You guys. I spent the day wrestling in the Lt weldment. what a pain in the butt and now marching thru all the bolt holes to see what lines up and what needs tweaking. Brian I think it was your site where I first noticed the issue with the short bolts. And also the precaution regarding the fuel and brake lines. The real consern when i left the hangar was the weldment/spar/wing attach bolts are going to need a lot attention but I guess better now that when it comes time to put on the wings. Brian by the way great site, thanks again you guys Gary