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1. 11:34 AM - Roll Over Structure (Gary Graham)
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| Subject: | Roll Over Structure |
--> Rocket-List message posted by: Gary Graham <beeb@teleport.com>
I have been thinking about the recent death of a fellow RVer and friend.
It was reported that his neck was broken when his RV-4 fast back, ended up
on its back in an off airport landing. I thought I remembered a custom bar
(looking like the one in the RV-8) that was used in place of the "tower"
roll over structure that Van's designed for the RV-4. Looking through my
photos confirmed this.
I remember that when the RV-4 and Rocket II, were what 2 place guys were
building. There were many changes to the roll over structure showing up a
flyins. At the time, I liked the looks of the curved top bar from the
"Bakersfield Bunch". Going for function I ended up with the stock structure
with a slightly increased surface area at the top.
Now, every time I see a Rocket II or similar tandem seating airplane with a
tipover canopy, I picture it upside down resting on whatever, and
wondering if 200 pounds hanging in the straps has head room.
Please don't get me wrong here. This is not a critical comment on any
design or builder. I just wonder if my friend would have had a better
chance if he had not replaced the full height roll over structure. Food for
thought.
Gary, RV-4 FB
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