Source: 2002-Q3 Beartracks, Tim Babcock, #361, Edmonton AB
Hi Mike, just some news from the north. #361 is progressing nicely. Wings are almost done and I have purchased my O-540 Lycoming with accessories and a constant speed prop. I have all the wheels and brakes, etc. I should be able to start on the fuselage later this summer. I ran into a problem on the wing strut attach fittings. On drawing #15 the strut end at the wing fitting shows a 9/16″ radius from the C/L of a 3/8″ hole. That is fine. On drawing #15a (supplied with the new strut material ordered from Bob) this same area shows a 3/4″ radius from the C/L 3/8″ hole. This fitting hits the bottom of the wing before it can reach line up with the holes in the attach bars. I made a set of attach bars a little longer to allow the holes to line up. I will adjust the strut to make the dihedral work out. I haven’t noticed anything in the newsletters regarding this problem. If you can check that would be great. I don’t think changing the radius on the aluminum bar is a good option.

Mike replies: I checked with Bob and he has suggested builders fabricate piece to drawing and check for fit. If needed, up to 1/16″ of material can be removed on a flat to allow for no interference with wing skin. As with any plans-built there will be slight variances between each builder’s parts. Bob has designed plenty of extra strength in the airplane just for such occurrences.