SonexBuilders.net

I am a new member and builder and really appreciate this forum. I have a quick build Waiex that I am just starting. Would like to get seat belts attached and close the bottom of the fuselage. What is a good source. Saw one thread sometime back but can't seem to find anything.

I recently put in some Crow brand belts.

They are the "V" type 4 point like the factory originals, my options were: black hardware, latch and link fastener, sewn in shoulder pads and chest straps sewn to lap belts.

They will custom make them to your preferences and they were really reasonable.

I REALLY like them and think they look a lot better than the originals! The shoulder belts sewn into the lap belt makes it easier for passengers to get strapped in without fumbling around with the little latches that slide over the buckle like the originals.

Like Mike, I also recommend Crow seat belts. They are very reasonably priced and come in a variety of colors with padding if desired. I installed them in my RV-10 and chose the cam style buckle. I'll be putting the same in my RV-9A.

Thanks guys. That is what I was looking for.

Consider leaving both the rear and forward belly skins off until you are almost ready for your final inspection.

Just talking with a friend who is further along in a project and he pretty much convinced me to not get to anxious about closing things up. Think that he has spent a lot of time drilling out rivets. I think that I will take your advice.

Thanks
Jim

I found that the Forward skins should be riveted on as you finish work in that area. But the aft belly skin should be left off until you see the inspector pulling in the driveway for the final inspection. It’s amazing what you can access by leaving the seat out and crawling up through the bottom.

Both of my skins are still off. I would like to put on the forward skin but not until wiring is complete.

What do you need access to in the aft fuselage so late in the build? I was planning to leave the forward floor off until the very end but with all the control pushrods rigged I don't see much reason not to rivet the aft floor... Am I missing something?

I am running out of reasons to keep mine off. Last thing is probably ELT and antennas installation. Make sure you are finished with safety and clearance checks for your controls. I had to pull a pushrod out to open an exit hole.