During a post flight inspection yesterday, I discovered that all four of my
canopy shoot bolt bushings had broken loose from the canopy frame. Some of my
local fellow Europa builders told me that this happens all the time. However,
in the three years I have been monitoring this net, I have never seen anyone
else mention the problem. Does this happen as often as I'm led to believe? Is
this simply a weak design point for Europa? Does the factory have an AD fix for
this? Do the newer kits have a redesigned latching mechanism? Lastly, if any
of you gents have already been through this, do you have any suggestions on how
to to strengthen this area during the repair process? I wouldn't want this to
reoccur again, a few hours down the line. Canopys departing the aircraft during
flight, can ruin your whole day! Any advise is appreciated.
Regards,
Garry Stout Tri Gear A066
(813) 878-3929
FAX (813) 878-5651, Internet ID Gstout@us.ibm.com
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