Matt’s RV7 Build Log

Tonight I researched whether to dimple or countersink the E702 for riveting the E709 rib in place. It seems even though the instructions explicitly state to countersink, most everyone dimples both parts because it’s much easier and in an inherently stronger bond.

• Dimpled E702 and 709
• Deburred E702 and 709 

Note 1: I cut my spare micro-countersink cage down so that it would center over the outside holes at the end of the 702 spar and still clear the flange. I didn’t end up using it as I decided to dimple this part instead. I am sure though this will come in handy on tight spots in the future. Note 2: The price of getting the cage cut down is that I most likely ruined my bandsaw blade. 

–Dimpled top right elevator skin

–Finished dimpling the elevator stiffeners
–Dimpled E615 and the nut plates 

–Scotchbrite stiffeners
–Started dimpling stiffeners 

Note: Dimpled one of the E720H stiffeners on the wrong side. Ordered replacement from Van’s. 

–Finished dimpling skins and stiffeners

Note: Some holes in the skins look enlarged after dimpling. They are large enough for an oops rivet so I am going to move ahead with the 3-3 rivets.

–Match drilled rudder stiffeners and both skins
–Started dimpling rudder parts 

–Deburred and dimpled HS skin holes

–Finished deburring HS skeleton
–Dimpled HS skins

The job and family kept me busy this past month. It felt good to dive back into the HS. Annabelle helped me dimple the skins tonight.