Category: Shop and Tools

Topics related to the my building space and tools.

Let there be LIGHT!

Brian 0 Comment Shop and Tools

Prep-work for my garage continues as continue to “tool up” for my impending build.

I was lucky enough to grab a number of tools off the VAF classifieds, as well as a few sales from Cleveland Tool and Aircraft Tool Supply, as well as some e-bay finds.

Improvements in the Garage include new LED lights to brighten the place up (WOW what a difference the lights make!), overhead power and air, some new tool cabinets, and generally throwing away more stuff that I no longer need!

I also upgraded my tool-box to one of the large Harbor Freight boxes (wish I did that years ago honestly!)

My latest purchase has been again off the VAF site.  I now have a secondhand, or more accurately third hand, DRDT-2 from Experimental Aero.

I think the last item I would like to purchase is a Drillpress, but that may wait until the day I actually need to use it.

 

 

 

Workbenches and Workspace

Brian 0 Comment Shop and Tools

Since I’m still a ways off from ordering tools or the first kit, I have been busy trying to get my garage ready to be a workshop.  I’m not sure if I’m the only one out there that has a TON of stuff shoved into every corner of their garage, but I know this has to end.  To try to claim control of my garage once again, I started by installing a pull-down staircase to access the attic space above the garage.

I then purchased a Sprayfoam kit, sprayed about 1-2 inches of foam to give me a decent air barrier, the installed some plywood so I could utilize this space for storing boxes and other items that were light, but bulky.  Since this space wasn’t really designed for flooring / live loads, I am careful to only use it for things like empty storage containers, empty boxes, holiday lights, etc.

Next I build two of the EAA tables.  This was VERY straightforward and easy to get done.  There are LOTS of good youtube videos from others if you have any questions.  I didn’t think another video needed to be made.

Currently I’m in the process of organizing my tool chest and getting rid of a lot of my acquired crud. Spare parts to old tools, pieces from my old Motorcycle, old battery powered tools that no longer hold their charge, etc.  I haven’t started to touch all the TOYS my little girls have stored along one wall, but everything else has been fair game.

Last thing I’m thinking about doing is making a “quiet box” for my 20 Gallon air compressor as well as installing some more permanent air fittings on the walls near where I plan to work as well as a FRL just off the compressor.  Possibly even installing a pull-down reel on the ceiling  with some lighter weight hose in addition to the reel I have on the wall already.

Basically doing everything I can to get ready for my build before I take the plunge.  Still need to get buy-in from the whole family since this will TOTALLY impact them going forward.

Where to build

Brian 0 Comment General, Shop and Tools

Once the decision has been made that you want to build an airplane, the next thing you should think about (besides cost) is where you will build it.  I see lots of people that somehow are able to get T-hangars for cheap or have a great workshop where they are building their plane.  Being just outside of DC, I have limited options available to me.  Hangars are EXPENSIVE and almost impossible to get as we have so few airfields.

That leaves me with my 2 car Garage.  I’ve heard stories about a gentlemen in NY who basically build an RV in his apartment.  I completely understand the maxim of “if there is a will, there is a way” but I also want the process to be enjoyable.  From a practical perspective, I’m hoping my garage has the potential to work as my shop until I’m ready to move things to a hangar.  (Just got an e-mail that VKX got an approved zoning for 30+ new hangars so I’m hoping those get built before I finish my RV) EDIT: HA, while they got the zoning permissions, no actual talk of any new hangars ever happened!  Oh well.  🙁

The good news is I found that Brian & Brandi built their RV in a converted carport.  It’s slightly bigger than my garage, but makes me think this is doable.  I’ll get some pictures of my garage later but for now here are the details.

Garage Door – 94″ wide by 90″ high.  (Possibly higher if I release the door from the opener)
Easily usable space – Approx 13′ by 15′ by 8′ high.
Storage space – above Garage Doors.

The room is physically bigger, but have items in the garage that can’t easily be relocated.  (Motorcycle, Compressor, Fridge, etc).   I’m also worried about heat / cold as my garage isn’t conditioned space.  Do I just get a small space heater / portable AC, install a mini-split system, or just suck it up?  Overall having the workshop at the house means more opportunities to work on things, but also more opportunities for distraction.

Tools:  So I have some general idea of what tools are needed, but not sure the best way to procure them.  Just buy a set from http://planetools.com/ (I’m convinced I need a DRDT-2 dimpler by Jason Ellis), or should I go the e-bay route?  Luckily I already have a large compressor and some air-tools, but don’t have a drill-press, scroll saw, or bench grinder.

End of the day, I’m expecting to drop a sizeable chuck of cash to order the Empennage kit, Tools, and other misc supplies needed to get started.  I also need to get my loving family on-board as my wife still isn’t convinced that this is a great idea.  Hopefully once I get my PPL license and take her up a few times she may change her mind.