[Wing] Help with the Inspection

[Jacob & Grace]

Yes there are lots of people who deserve credit for their efforts.  Sorry Terry, I don't want to get wound up about training!  I don't have "Gary Wolf's response..." and I was simply asking an honest question, I don't know anything about tapes or CD's or 2 day courses.  I have all the other stuff you describe and use it, I agree with your statements fully.
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: T&M Elgood 
  To: wing at vansairforce.org 
  Cc: Gerry Haliburton 
  Sent: Friday, June 20, 2003 5:31 PM
  Subject: [Wing] Help with the Inspection


  Over the past several years I have performed many inspections on Amateur Built Aircraft at all stages of construction, plus as MD-RA regional chief inspector I have reviewed the final inspection paperwork for all MD-RA inspections in BC. With this experience I have a few suggestions to help you through the inspection process.



  The main area of concern on this forum seems to be with the issuing of paperwork for inspections. If this is a concern for you, deal with it by allowing sufficient time for Gerry Haliburton at MD-RA headquarters to issue your inspection paperwork, don't leave it to the last moment. 

  I have passed on various forum submissions to Allan Mahon and Gerry Haliburton so that they see the reaction some people have to MD-RA. I have also passed on compliments to the appropriate inspectors in BC.

  Various comments against MD-RA are followed with "I hope they don't hold this against me". I think you will find that MD-RA will deal with your inspection in a professional and reasonable manner.

  Before you forum guys get all wound up about training requirements on CD or tape, read Gary Wolf's response and keep in mind it is a Transport Canada requirement for classroom training. You cannot exchange ideas and solutions to problems by watching a recorded training session. The two day training sessions we all attend are very interesting and educational with input from T. C. and MD-RA.

  Do yourself a favour, when it is updated, get the RAA Builders Manual. It will guide you through the inspection process, also included is Chapter 549 and amendments. The section on how to fill out the Application for C of A could use some improvement, have a look at www.vansairforce.org look for Procedure for completing the application for c of a, you will find it much easier. (Tedd, is there a direct route to this)

  Another book you should have is AC 43.13 Acceptable Methods, Techniques and Practices.

  Your aircraft project requires inspection at specific stages during the course of construction, it is your responsibility to ensure this is done.

  After the final inspection there are often delays in issuing the Flight Authority due to problems with the paperwork submitted by builders, for example;

  1/ Weight and Balance
      Review the MD-RA sheet showing the required content, some are incomplete and require correction.
      Three loading conditions are required; gross weight, most forward CG, most aft CG. ( for your own information, at gross weight burn off the fuel and see what happens to the CG)  
      End this document with " I certify---- etc."  date and sign

  2/ Log book entries
      Review the MD-RA sheet showing the log entries, DO NOT date and sign the MD-RA FORM. write the three statements in your log book and provide a xerox copy for your inspector.
      Hint; make all 3 entries on one page, it's easier to copy than when written across two pages.

  3/ Data Plate
      Fill out the MD-RA form, content; name of builder, aircraft model, serial number.
      A 2" x 4" stainless plate is available from Demel Aircraft.

  4/ Application for C of A
      The mistakes in this form are the main reason for delays in issuing the Flight Authority, follow the math on my procedure and it will be a lot easier.
      Some submissions are painted with so much whiteout they are illegible, they will be sent back.
      Fill it out in imperial or metric measurement, not both.
      Please supply me with the dimensions of ; wing- span and chord, flap- span and chord. I check all the math on this form.
      On the top right corner there is a question " was the design modified yes or no". If you increase the designers recommended gross weight, answer yes and provide me with a letter including the following; aircraft type, model and serial number with a statement similar to " The recommended gross weight for this aircraft is_____lbs. , I request ______lbs. and I accept the responsibility. Date and sign. 
      Three copies of the application form are required with original signatures of the builder and the inspector who performed your final inspection.

  5/ Certificate of Registration
      You should have the C of R before the final inspection; apply for the final from MD-RA (well ahead of time ), apply to Transport Canada for your C of R. When you have the C of R and the paperwork from MD-RA completed, phone the inspector and arrange the inspection. 

  A few final thoughts. Be sure the aircraft is ready for the final inspection, it should be completed and ready to fly, the engine should run properly, brakes and instruments function properly. The cowlings and inspection covers should be off. Pay attention to the placards, instrument limits and gas gauge calibration. 


  If you have any questions about the inspection procedure and can't find an answer in Chapter 549 or the Builders Manual, contact me, preferably by email. I will respond or forward your question.

  Terry Elgood 

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