[Wing] re: Starting an RV7(A)

[Cliff Adams]

I too had some doubts about riveting stuff but thanks to Barry
Tunzlemann (working in Edmonton for a while) I got some fine tips and
"how to's..." and a little dual on a rivet gun. The best I can offer
right now is
1. Use a 3X gun at fairly low pressure... 40 to 80 PSI and tease the
trigger gently to get the rivet started...make sure the bucking bar is
held square to the work
2. It is essential the work is held firmly in place...nothing is worse
than having the rivet set jump all over your nice new aluminum making
smiles in the surface
3. Barry taught me to recognize and drill out bad rivets...practice how
to do this as you will have a bad rivet or two for sure. A piece of
masking tape on the end of the cupped rivet set (especially the 1/8"
rivets) helps to protect the factory head nicely.
4. While a rhythm does develop when rivetting, I've found that the first
few rivets always require some thought and care when driving.
5. The knowledge curve seems steep at times but you will become
proficient...good building and best of luck

Cliff Adams RV7A Emp (half  done & 90% to go on the tail feathers)