RV-14 Canopy handle machining run #2
Hi,
I have had several builders contact me and ask to be put on a notify list for a second production run. Gearing up for run #2, I have made a couple of adjustments.
Adjustments to the handle design:
1) The hole pattern is now matched to the factory RV-14 handle. This will make retrofit a snap for those replacing previously installed handles.
2) To accommodate the new hole pattern, there are now 4 (rather than 3) ribs. I have tested the access provided for riveting between ribs and there is plenty of space for a squeezer.
3) I added two 1/4-20 holes to the forward side of the handle. These are designed to accept a RAM style ball stud for an action camera. But they can be used for anything, and a headset holder would also work out great there.
Adjustments to the process to get a handle:
1) I have created an entity and a web-store front to accept orders for handles.
This will provide a more efficient way to place, track, and pay for handles. (And it will also allow me to experiment with some other designs and services). Yes Doug Reeves is in the loop. He will have my advertising up shortly as I'm now an official advertiser.
The handle website is: Sloth-Works.com
2) Making handles is a family effort. My wife and boys have been part of the process all along. So if you call or email, you may get one of them. They are:
Cindy - My wife, student pilot
Otto - College sophomore engineering student, PPL
Harvey - HS senior, student pilot, future engineering major.
Hal - HS Junior - Football stud
I will be at Oshkosh this year (at least for the first half, maybe more will see...). I plan to have example handles there for inspection. Also, if anyone wants to pickup a handle from me there and save on shipping that works too.
Thanks again to all who have supported me in this new adventure. I hope it will grow into something useful and helpful for the Vans community.