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Noticed in several comments the concern that the fwd swing canopy

could catch the wind from behind and maybe be damaged. Saw a neat fix

for this in Ray Modert's 320 (Camarillo, CA). Ray used a retractible

seat belt (automotive) with the automatic wind-up spool feature,

mounted to the roof behind the roll over structure. The end of the

belt was attached to the rear of the canopy with just enough of the

belt left to allow the canopy full upward travel, but no more. With

the canopy closed, the belt was wound up neatly, and automatically,

on the spool. As the canopy was swung open, the belt would un-wind

from the spool until it came to the end, firmly limiting any further

movement. Looked like it would withstand a gale.



In post 201, Brent R. mentioned that you could drill a hole in a RG

battery and not much would happen (other than inducing it to quit

making like a battery, that is), no ugly-stuff would run out, etc.

Though I wouldn't advise it, you could get some REALLY interesting

sparks, or molten lead, even, if you just happened to stick the drill

bit thru a bunch of the active plates.



I've actually seen the military versions of these tested by being shot

with various sizes of ammunition. Purpose was to prove that the RG

batteries wouldn't let any ugly stuff run out, or do other bad

things, like explode, or start a fire, when suffering a direct hit

from whoever or whatever might be shooting at the airplane. Saw the results in a Battelle lab over in Columbus, OH, and these things are

tough compared to the standard flooded-cell battery. Which usually

just go to pieces (literally) when shot. (Can't blame 'em, so would I)



To John Cooper, what's the source of the Bosch relays you used? They

sound like they have better specs than the P&B relays I used,

particularly if you used them for the hydro pack control. I agree

with you, those big suckers that came with the kit are boat anchors.

And probably cost more than the Bosch units, too.



IMHO?? C'mon guys, give a computer illiterate a break. It's beginning

to look like we (I) need an acronym dictionary for us uninitiated.



Cheers,



Dan Schaefer





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