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Jims RV-8
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Date: 6-12-2014
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Number of Hours: 1.40
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Manual Reference: 8-2
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Brief Description: Rivet Firewall
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For the firewall, since the engine side of the firewall has flush rivets the recommended method of riveting is to back-rivet them. However, since the firewall flanges face forward, you have to elevate the back-rivet plate. I riveted 44 of the firewall rivets without incident...and then the 45th got pounded off of the back rivet plate! Dangit...
It made a nice outline of the back-rivet plate (see picture below) and I got a sinking feeling. I sent an email with the picture attached and asked for input. Vans said, "Hard to say what it will do, but a crease that sharp may develop a crack after the aircraft is in service. You could try to remove the dent and/or add a doubler for strength."
Well, the thought of checking the airplane over in preparation to fly to OSH and finding a crack in the firewall, and thinking about pulling all the plumbing and "Stuff" off of the firewall and replacing (or patching it) at that point.... yea, I will be replacing it now instead of later. So I placed the order for another firewall...the $115 (+shipping) is alot - but in terms of peace of mind...it's cheap insureance. Besides, me, my baby (the airplane) and EVERYONE that will ever ride in the back seat - is WORTH IT!
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