In 2005 Van's Aircraft had a ten week lead time posted on their web site for delivery of wing and fuselage kit orders. In 2006 that was revised to eight weeks. I ordered my wing kit on July 10, 2006. By the beginning of August 2006 I received notice that my kit would ship the third week of August 2006. That means the actual time was six weeks. Van's Aircraft is getting better at what they do all the time. I received further notice that the actual shipment date was August 24, 2006. On August 31, 2006 the shipping company ABF Freight Systems, one of Van's main shipping companies, called to say my shipment had arrived in their warehouse. The next day I went to ABF Freight Systems, picked up my Bill of Lading, went to Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (CCRA) to pay my taxes owed, then back to ABF with the CCRA authorization to release my shipment and to pay my freight charges and arrange for delivery to my house.
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On September 5, 2006 ABF freight delivered two wing kit crates to my house, putting them into my garage without my assistance. The driver had a wheel dolly technique that required no heavy lifting. |
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After working through many winter months by the beginning of March 2007 I managed to assemble the wings to the point where they need inspection prior to closing them. I also completed the ailerons and flaps to the point where they need inspection. |
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On November 16, 2007 the MD-RA inspector inspected my work and approved closing the wings. So I set to work with my brother Bernie and on November 24, 2007 both wings were completely riveted. |
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