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Benbell4140
01-18-2021, 05:03 PM
Well on January 7th my fuselage kit arrived. I ordered the wings at a later date so they aren’t expected until June or July. I guess I’ll start a build log here since they are so informative. If anyone has any questions please feel free to ask.

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Benbell4140
01-18-2021, 05:06 PM
Here are some more pics of progress. The builders manual has been excellent!

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Benbell4140
01-18-2021, 05:09 PM
I didn’t order the prefab kit because I have a CNC machine shop. The factory was willing to send the raw materials and plans way ahead of time and I was able to get a head start on the brackets.

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Benbell4140
01-18-2021, 05:13 PM
While waiting for the kit to arrive I put together a “budget glass panel”. I purchased most avionics from someone updating an RV-10. I know it’s not the latest and greatest but it was very affordable. Also I realize that it is very early in the build to put a panel together but I was somewhat bored while waiting [emoji41]

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Jerrytex
01-18-2021, 06:29 PM
Wow! So it looks like you have been up for 264 hours, Jan 7-18th working non-stop? Ha!

Impressive progress!

Benbell4140
01-18-2021, 06:46 PM
Thanks! I’ve rebuilt quite a few airplanes in the past and also have built an RV-8. Also the machine shop really speeds things up on the bushings. I work on the kitfox around 3 hours a day during the week and around 10 hours a day on weekends. And the kitfox is a pleasure to work with. I’m looking forward to much more progress!


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airlina
01-19-2021, 08:05 AM
Wow! So it looks like you have been up for 264 hours, Jan 7-18th working non-stop? Ha!

Impressive progress!

Ben , after going thru how much you have accomplished already, I had to go back to your first post to check the date you received the fuse, because I thought I must have misread it- Nope I didn't Jan 7. Great progress in short time , lookin good Bruce N199CL

Meyer
01-19-2021, 09:26 AM
Good luck! Looks great!

Benbell4140
01-19-2021, 04:54 PM
I was able to start on the rudder pedals today. I found that bending the straps for the pulleys this way made it very easy to match drill thru the other side for a nice fit.

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I also had to remove some powder coat on the torque tubes for proper bearing clearance. I did this by spin polishing them using scotch bright.

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alexM
01-19-2021, 08:48 PM
Wow that's getting to it. And beautiful work.

Eric Page
01-19-2021, 10:04 PM
If only my airplane's first owner had been this guy... :D

I can tell right away that this thread is going to leave me consumed with tool envy.

taff
01-20-2021, 11:06 AM
Congratulations on your airplane.
I know, it's in the works but what a great start to the New Year
What do you think...2 years and she'll be done ? ;)

What I am seeing is great detail!

Benbell4140
01-20-2021, 11:53 AM
Thanks! I believe I could be done in 2 years or less. However I’m hoping that the FAA changes the LSA weights before it’s finished because I plan on installing an O200 and it would be awesome if I could register it at 1550 gross and still be LSA eligible.


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Benbell4140
01-22-2021, 09:26 PM
Work has kept me a little busy the past few days but I’m still making some progress.
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bbs428
01-23-2021, 01:32 AM
Impressive work Ben. Enjoying your workmanship and tooling skills. :)

Jerrytex
01-23-2021, 10:07 AM
Thats a good idea drilling the hole in the mixer assembly for the safety wire.

Benbell4140
01-23-2021, 10:09 AM
I wasn’t a fan of the way the manual wants it safety wired. My dad took a quick look and came up with this idea.


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alexM
01-23-2021, 11:04 AM
Excellent work. I'm going to say you're jumping the gun with the orange thread locker on those rudder pedal brackets. You'll have those floor boards out a few more times, including when you cover the fuselage with fabric.
I only know because I did it too.

jrevens
01-23-2021, 09:53 PM
I wasn’t a fan of the way the manual wants it safety wired. My dad took a quick look and came up with this idea.


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I also used some (.040") safety wire similar to what you did because I didn't want the bolt to rotate in that hole... I wanted it to rotate in the bronze bushings only. I didn't drill a hole like you did, but I wrapped the wire tightly around the arm. In one drawing they showed a cotter key for that nut, but in another they show the safety wire used just as a cotter key would be used (which would not keep the bolt from rotating against the holes in the arm). I think we were probably thinking alike. Your work all looks very good to me, Ben!

I didn't much care for the S.S. strap and rivets that hold the other pivot pins in either, so I did something a little different there too.

Benbell4140
01-24-2021, 04:54 PM
Last night I was able to get started on the tail fiberglass. Today I finished up the center console, side stringers, and door trim. Also got a head start on the rear bulkhead trimming-fitting.

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Benbell4140
01-27-2021, 08:33 PM
We had a boring afternoon waiting for hysol to cure on the tail so we decided to fit the panel. My daughter said all systems are go, go, and go.

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https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210128/28dabfeca58cd98be6c58d57ec506dfb.jpg

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bbs428
01-28-2021, 07:25 AM
I remember when my daughter was that age... Great times.
Panel looks good. Copilot looks like she's ready for take off and blue skies! All systems go! :D

Benbell4140
01-31-2021, 10:34 PM
Things have been moving along pretty good lately. Here are a few pics of recent progress.

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airlina
02-01-2021, 03:29 AM
Ben , sure didn't take you long to find an engine , you could be the Mike Patey of this kitfox forum-no moss grows under your feet! Now "back to work" Bruce N199CL

Benbell4140
02-07-2021, 11:01 AM
Update on progress.

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taff
02-07-2021, 12:45 PM
Nice!

Very nice :D Just like all that your doing.

Benbell4140
02-26-2021, 09:03 PM
Here are some recent pictures. Some hardware is temporary for now. It’s been such a fun project!

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Benbell4140
02-26-2021, 09:13 PM
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ken nougaret
03-02-2021, 05:53 PM
Ben is that a battery box in the tail? You may not need your battery back that far. During my build I put mine under the stab like the instructions show but quickly realized it was too much tail weight. My odyssey 680 battery is right behind my seat and w&b is perfect with o-200.

Benbell4140
03-03-2021, 07:49 AM
Ken, this is a battery box. It’s for the Earth X battery which is really light. It’s not all the way back in the tail though. It’s above the rear elevator bell crank. It will be easy to move forward if need be in the future.


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Benbell4140
03-08-2021, 05:15 PM
Still chipping away at covering. I’d like to get this thing painted before the summer heat.

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taff
03-08-2021, 07:46 PM
Exiting stuff.

All of a sudden it looks like an airplane. And you can feel good about it!
Pull up a chair and admire your work :D

edit.
Oops, clean up first (Lol)

Benbell4140
03-08-2021, 08:03 PM
Taff. Yes indeed! The best part of the day after working on an airplane is sitting back and looking at the progress while planning tomorrow’s goals.


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taff
03-09-2021, 06:57 AM
It's important to slow down and study the progress, and also to contemplate the next plan of action.

Below, was my my thinking spot. Maybe, but after a full day my thinking got a little blurry, or was it the beer !

Benbell4140
03-09-2021, 08:33 AM
That’s funny! Most likely the beer [emoji482]

Benbell4140
03-13-2021, 06:56 AM
Update on the build. My inflatable paint booth came in just in time. I ironed out as many imperfections as I could and went to spraying. It’s looking great so far and I’m very happy with the paint booth.

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taff
03-13-2021, 08:58 AM
I like your spray booth.
Is that a Carcoon booth?

https://workstation.carcoonamerica.com/

Benbell4140
03-13-2021, 10:32 AM
It’s a GORILLASPRO from eBay. It’s 21’ long and was $740ish. Worth every penny to me.

taff
03-13-2021, 12:19 PM
That's perfect for you and for anyone who ever tries it.

When your done you should put it up for sale, you will probably get your money back.

Now don't go testing out your fan pattern against the walls. :eek:

Benbell4140
03-13-2021, 12:44 PM
I thought about renting the booth to members of this forum until I recoup my money and then let it pass from one builder to another for shipping cost. Just a thought

taff
03-13-2021, 01:58 PM
That's a great idea :cool:

Kitfox Pilot
03-14-2021, 05:50 PM
[QUOTE=Benbell4140;98068]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210227/0fc4613d471feea0f093dd6140e838b5.jpg



https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210227/aed440314e68ed480dd2c70d5834e87b.jpg



Ben, I think I'm going to copy your battery mount, hope its not patented. Thank for posting the pics. https://teamkitfox.com/Forums/images/icons/icon12.png

Benbell4140
03-14-2021, 06:22 PM
[QUOTE=Benbell4140;98068]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210227/0fc4613d471feea0f093dd6140e838b5.jpg



https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210227/aed440314e68ed480dd2c70d5834e87b.jpg



Ben, I think I'm going to copy your battery mount, hope its not patented. Thank for posting the pics. https://teamkitfox.com/Forums/images/icons/icon12.png

Sure thing! Let me know if you need any pictures. I’ve added a stiffener under the aluminum sheet. I plan on mounting my master relay and main fuse in the same location. Possibly the elt too.


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Kitfox Pilot
03-14-2021, 07:34 PM
That's a good idea. I need some weigh aft myself and have just started thinking about it. I fly a piper archer now and it has the battery aft like that and I did not want another one like that because of never having enough power to the starter but I'm hoping a rotax is not as hard to crank as a Lycoming and copper wires are much better than the old aluminum ones I have now.

Benbell4140
03-15-2021, 03:25 PM
This beauty showed up today. Very impressed with the finish!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210315/de27daf2461ea66d2325df9cdd2a781c.jpg


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Eric Page
03-15-2021, 06:33 PM
Looks beautiful! Is that one of their in-flight adjustable models? Electric, hydraulic or hybrid?

I was looking at their website a couple days ago and I couldn't make any sense of their offerings. They claim to have fully electric hubs, but I couldn't find any evidence of it in their product listings; I only found props labeled hydraulic. Did you call them for a Kitfox and engine-specific recommendation?

Benbell4140
03-15-2021, 07:51 PM
This prop is only ground adjustable. I agree with you on the website information. Best thing to do is give the Florida location a call and Gaetan will promptly answer any questions you have. Excellent customer service in my opinion. Gaetan kept me up to date throughout the whole process via text, email, and his personal cell phone.


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airlina
03-16-2021, 02:43 AM
Ben , is this prop for an O-200 install ? and what does it weigh? thanks Bruce N199CL

Benbell4140
03-16-2021, 04:43 AM
It is, I’ll try to get my hands on a scale to get the weight for you.

taff
03-16-2021, 12:08 PM
This beauty showed up today. Very impressed with the finish!

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That looks sweet!

Benbell4140
04-02-2021, 09:56 AM
Finally the kitfox gets to see sunlight.

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Kitfox Pilot
04-02-2021, 11:47 AM
Looking Good!

Benbell4140
04-02-2021, 02:56 PM
Thank you, yours is looking great too!

Benbell4140
06-02-2021, 08:26 PM
Well it’s been a while since I’ve posted an update. I accidentally put a small hole in the fuselage and decided to wet sand the entire fuselage down and spray a couple more coats of aerothane after patching the hole. It came out nicer and more glossy than the previous paint. I’m actually glad that it happened. The firewall forward kit (minus cowlings) showed up today. I was able to start on it but ran short on rivets. Couldn’t resist a little test fit to the fuselage. Of coarse I had my favorite helper giving me a hand.

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alexM
06-02-2021, 09:13 PM
Your signature says "possibly O-200 powered?"

That mount and firewall seem to imply you've firmed up that decision?

Benbell4140
06-03-2021, 04:49 AM
Yes. I purchased an O-200 a couple of months ago.

Kitfox Pilot
06-03-2021, 05:18 AM
You've got some really great help there and above average tooling in the back ground of your 4th pic for building airplane kits! haha

Benbell4140
06-06-2021, 08:12 PM
You've got some really great help there and above average tooling in the back ground of your 4th pic for building airplane kits! haha

Thanks Harlan. All I’ve ever worked with for my day job is metal. I’ve been in the manufacturing industry since the early years of high school. Started out with a broom in my hand lol. I now have a small CNC machine shop at home. Your airplane is really looking nice! Congratulations on your retirement and making all of these fine memories with your family. I enjoy the YouTube videos.


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Benbell4140
06-08-2021, 07:10 AM
Engine is installed. The bolts that kitfox sent me were too short so I have Home Depot bolts for now just to start fitting things. I’m waiting on a reply from them to see when I will receive the correct bolts. I had Clint at vetterman exhaust build me a crossover system. It’s loose in this picture because I’m waiting for gaskets to arrive but it fits perfectly. Fuel system and other components are on order as well. Can’t wait to here it run.

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https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210608/2bf454dd8c5a728d271dcb6d008968dc.jpg


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ken nougaret
06-08-2021, 10:38 AM
Looks REAL good. And the cowling still fits with the exhaust coming around the front?

Benbell4140
06-08-2021, 11:57 AM
Looks REAL good. And the cowling still fits with the exhaust coming around the front?

Hopefully [emoji41]
When it’s tightened up the pipes sit really close to the crankcase. Vetterman did some research using other continental kitfox build photos.


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Benbell4140
07-12-2021, 11:57 AM
Yesterday was exciting. Pulled the airplane out and did my first engine start. Had an oil pressure problem and quickly shut it down. After doing a little research we found the pump had lost prime due to the way the engine was stored. We primed the pump and everything worked perfectly. I need to take a break for a day or two to clean up my shop then I’ll be back at it.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210712/b2bd624b6383ff15e87c2b9aac8d9689.jpg


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DesertFox4
07-12-2021, 05:20 PM
First engine start is a big benchmark in the build process. Congrats. Glad the oil pressure squawk was easily resolved.👍
A clean shop does pays dividends. 😉

Kitfox Pilot
07-13-2021, 05:27 AM
I bet that is an exciting day. I bet that sounds good with that exhaust system! Keep up the reporting we enjoy watching your build progress very much.

Benbell4140
07-13-2021, 07:04 AM
I enjoy watching your progress too Harlan. The continental does sound pretty good with the vetterman exhaust. I have a video but I’m not sure how to post it on the forum.


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Benbell4140
08-15-2021, 06:17 PM
Here is a little update on my build progress. You’ll see some temporary fuel lines, zip ties, etc. but all in all it pretty much shows where I am currently in the build. I really enjoyed having John over to visit and do some YouTube work.


https://youtu.be/P3WWnx3p0EI


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Kitfox Pilot
08-15-2021, 07:48 PM
That was a great video Ben. You have a great looking kitfox for sure and a very nice family to be proud of! Thanks for sharing.

ken nougaret
08-16-2021, 06:44 AM
Great looking plane, family, and place you have there!
I like the exhaust and see one in my future. Was wondering what you'll do for carb heat without the exhaust muff?

Benbell4140
08-16-2021, 07:01 AM
Thank Harlen...Ken, the exhaust did come with a cabin heater muff and carb heat muff. I haven’t installed them yet. Vetterman exhaust has been around for a long time and almost every vans RV uses a vetterman system. I really wanted a 4 into 1 system but I didn’t really want to spend the time designing and building from scratch.


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jrevens
08-16-2021, 09:37 AM
A quick story… my best friend and hangar mate for 28 years, Dean Cochran, utilizing knowledge from John Thorp, designed/built basically those very same SS cross-over exhaust systems in the beginning, when there was a very big need for them in the Thorp & the homebuilt community in general. He manufactured & sold many hundreds of them in his basement (both complete and as weld-it-yourself kits) for years until he got tired of it and taught Larry Vetterman how to do it, as well as providing some of the necessary tooling, etc. A properly designed cross-over system like that can be more efficient than any 4-in-one or straight pipe system. Dean was a fellow T-18 builder, and passed away 10 years ago in August of 2011.

Benbell4140
08-16-2021, 12:36 PM
John, this is great information. Sorry that you lost your best friend. I didn’t realize how far back this design goes (in time).


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Benbell4140
08-16-2021, 01:39 PM
John, I just happened to be machining some bushings for a thorp T-18 today. I guess it’s a small world. Richard Bentley said that you sold him your thorp and he’s really in love with it! He said to tell you hi.


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jrevens
08-16-2021, 09:30 PM
Thanks Ben! I just talked to Richard also when he called me today. I understand he lives close to you, and he was very complementary of you and your craftsmanship. It is a small world. Your Kitfox looks very good… it’s gonna’ be a great one! I love your shop too!

Benbell4140
08-31-2021, 03:17 PM
I took delivery of the wing kit today. Very impressed with the quick build work quality. Now I just need some cooler weather so I can get back at it!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210831/4e196494229753cd5b2fe259ddbe04d7.jpg


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Kitfox Pilot
08-31-2021, 04:14 PM
You will love working on the wings. They are a pleasure to finish up.

Benbell4140
09-06-2021, 10:46 AM
Took a break from real work to machine a little indicator plate to use with the earth x battery fault wire.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210906/b6de4d5f6a709f440503a98c9311bc27.jpg


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Benbell4140
10-03-2021, 07:06 PM
I’ve been slowly working on the wings. Don’t have as much free time as I had earlier in the year due to work. But it’s nice to slow down on the airplane for a little while.
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Benbell4140
10-24-2021, 02:58 PM
Took advantage of the warm weather today to work on the bubble doors. I just need to hinge them and install the gas struts. Then back to more wiring and wing work.

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Kitfox Pilot
10-24-2021, 05:57 PM
You are really making some great progress!
Doors look real nice.

Benbell4140
10-24-2021, 06:14 PM
Thank you Harlan. You must be getting excited about starting that engine. I know harvest got in the way but you’ll be flying very soon! I can’t wait to see your first flight.


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DesertFox4
10-24-2021, 08:36 PM
Sure looks nice Ben. You’re doing great.

Benbell4140
10-30-2021, 04:58 PM
Started rough cutting the cowling today. I got to the point where I’m unsure if I should start fitting the windshield before moving forward with the cowl. I’d like to start on the windshield before winter temps start arriving.

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Jerrytex
10-30-2021, 05:06 PM
Nice. Looking good!

Kitfox Pilot
10-30-2021, 05:07 PM
Looking good Ben. I kinda wish I would have went with the carbon fiber, it really looks nice.
I think you should start on the windshield so you can coach me on it when I get to it..:)

alexM
12-07-2021, 11:07 PM
Ben,
Your inbox is full. Let me know when you can receive a message.

Benbell4140
12-08-2021, 05:13 AM
Alex. I deleted some messages.

Benbell4140
12-08-2021, 02:05 PM
Update. I wanted to take advantage of warm weather while we still have it and decided to install the windshield. Everything went perfectly until I removed the protective film and went to install the windshield for the last time. When I slid it into place I didn’t realize that the foam tape on the fuselage actually peeled back and was grabbing the windshield. It cracked and as I drilled a stop hole the crack spread. But I was able to get it drilled and get the windshield in place. After thinking about lead times on items these days I decided to do a repair using plastifix and I’ll just have to build some larger wing root cuffs when that time comes. At this point I’ve learned to live with it and have moved on to wing work again. It’s really not noticeable on the ground or in the cockpit. The first pic is after the repair and polish.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20211208/c60cd85ede7f35fb23751d572a3ebfc3.jpg
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Eric Page
12-08-2021, 04:21 PM
Well, that stinks. Like you said, a nice root cuff will cover most of it, and unless you point it out I'll bet no one notices. One step closer to first flight!

Kitfox Pilot
12-08-2021, 05:33 PM
Looks like a good repair Ben.

Benbell4140
12-08-2021, 05:44 PM
Thanks Harlan and Eric. It was upsetting at first but I’m over it. It’s happened very easily so y’all be careful [emoji41]


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Shadowrider
12-08-2021, 06:06 PM
Oh man so frustrating!

Benbell4140
03-06-2022, 01:44 PM
Got to spend a few hours on the fox today. Feels good to be back at it. Worked on the leading edge and false ribs.

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DesertFox4
03-06-2022, 07:41 PM
Good to see you back working on it again Ben.

Benbell4140
04-02-2022, 04:40 PM
My dad and I have been working on the kitfox pretty consistently lately. Fitting the cowl, fitting the turtle deck, and started covering the wings.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220402/a03d1990e061cc22f8de49f6a1d3d1d3.jpg

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Kitfox Pilot
04-02-2022, 05:19 PM
Looks like you are making some good progress now Ben.

Benbell4140
04-02-2022, 05:52 PM
Yes it seems to be moving forward again. I guess I needed a little time off of the airplane and my job was able to help me do that. Feels good to make progress!


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Benbell4140
04-29-2022, 02:56 PM
A little paint progress on the wings today.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220429/909f2d04f6364792dd6e8816f4a0cd45.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220429/f54ddafe5d96f7ed34e0a535593e4cab.jpg


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DesertFox4
04-29-2022, 06:49 PM
Very nice and shiny Ben. Looks good!

alexM
04-29-2022, 08:05 PM
Beautiful!

Benbell4140
04-29-2022, 09:43 PM
Thank you! It sure is fun making progress. I’m going to miss the building experience.


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bbs428
05-04-2022, 11:10 AM
Your paint is looking great!

I have the same style paint booth. It really helps in getting a nicely finished product.
Easy to keep warm in the winter months as well.

Benbell4140
05-04-2022, 11:53 AM
Thank you Brett. Yes the booth was a wise investment. I’m sure I’ll use it again on other projects in the future.

Benbell4140
05-11-2022, 06:17 PM
More progress pics. Wings are somewhat installed. And started on the boot cowl. It’s primed and waiting for final bodywork and top coat. She’s starting to look like an airplane!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220512/84530a2d2229fc55f7627718131aa251.jpg

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DesertFox4
05-12-2022, 11:52 AM
Looking very much like a Kitfox Ben. Good progress. You can start to see the finish line about now.👍😀

Pushboy
05-18-2022, 04:26 PM
Just curious about your paint booth -- would you be willing to provide a link to the one you bought? What size is it and did you find that adequate? Also -- if these things are inflatable -- why does everyone seem to build a frame inside them?

Thanks for any info -- I'm considering getting one for my upcoming build and other projects as well.

Dave.

jiott
05-18-2022, 04:36 PM
I think the reason for the frame inside is in case of sudden loss of power (blown fuse, power outage, etc.) you don't want the whole thing collapsing on your freshly painted beauty.

Benbell4140
05-18-2022, 04:42 PM
Dave. I purchased the paint booth from eBay. If you search for inflatable paint booth you will get multiple results. I don’t remember the exact size but I want to say it was around 21’ x 14’ or so. I paid somewhere between $700-$800 if I recall correctly but I’m sure they have gone up slightly (much like everything lately). The inflatable booth is a great idea in my opinion because you don’t lose any shop space when you aren’t using it. Most people build some type of removable structure inside just in case the electricity were to go out for some reason before the paint is fully cured. Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions.

Benbell4140
08-07-2022, 01:29 PM
Well no recent work done to the kitfox but I figured I’d pull it out and at least look at while we BBQ. I just might get motivated again. [emoji848]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220807/eb70a2ed230945ab80be6d5525bff053.jpg


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Kitfox Pilot
08-07-2022, 05:51 PM
You better get back on it Ben or you'll forget where you were at!

Benbell4140
08-07-2022, 07:58 PM
I agree!! However, it’s been so hot and work has been so busy. But I’m looking forward to fall, winter, and spring! Maybe she’ll make it to the airport before next summer.


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Kitfox Pilot
08-08-2022, 05:41 AM
I agree!! However, it’s been so hot and work has been so busy. But I’m looking forward to fall, winter, and spring! Maybe she’ll make it to the airport before next summer.


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We also have had a hot spell for the last month and work does get in the way of our hobbies. haha. Cooler is coming, I hope! Hope to fly alongside you someday.

Ex-plane
10-30-2022, 09:42 AM
Hi Ben,
I am currently rebuilding a SS7 with a Continental 0-200! A friend of mine had an accident with this airplane and gave up flying so I ended up with this project.It was originally a tricycle that he converted to a Taildragger so I don’t have the proper written balance for this Aircraft. Have you flown your aircraft yet or do you have any weight and balance done? Will you have to add tail weight and how much?I am currently taping the fuselage and was wondering if I need to make access in the tail for added weight. They had The battery in the tail along with 7 lbs. 10 oz. ballast. I’m planning on putting an X earth battery right behind the baggage area and using ballast were needed. I might also convert to the T3 tail wheel assembly also. I am also needing a prop and was wondering how you liked your DUC?
I really enjoyed your YouTube channel and your posts on team Kitfox! Thank you for sharing!
Stephen Martens
Stephenmartens7@icloud.com
308-353-1900

Benbell4140
10-31-2022, 04:25 AM
Hey Stephen! I sent you an email.


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Benbell4140
11-27-2022, 09:53 PM
Hello all, I’ve been checking in on the forum every morning but haven’t been very active. I’ve been so busy with “life” and work that I lost interest in the kitfox and actually considered selling the project. However, I recently started looking around the shop and I can now feel the kitfox bug again. Hopefully I’ll have some more progress pictures soon. I did do a little fitting on the wingtips this weekend and it felt good to be back on it. Anyhow I just figured I’d give an update on my build.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221128/6b1002cda80ab85cef6952cf4b192a94.jpg


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alexM
11-27-2022, 10:08 PM
Lose interest? Say it ain't so Ben. You've got such a great airplane there and you're so close to flying it!

Jerrytex
11-28-2022, 08:00 AM
Yeah man....don't quit. That feeling of "I built it, and now I am actually flying it" that only like .000034 % of the general population gets to feel, is so worth it.

Benbell4140
11-28-2022, 09:00 AM
Thanks guys. I’m looking forward to getting back on it consistently here in the near future.


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bbs428
11-29-2022, 11:04 AM
Just get in the shop every day, if possible, Ben. Even if it's to square away your build area.

I'm on year 4 and somedays I just don't feel it as well, but after a good day it feels really good to make some progress.

Hang in there!

Benbell4140
01-22-2023, 08:49 AM
I’ve been jumping around working on different things while waiting for supplies to come in to finish each individual project. Here are some random photos to keep the log somewhat up to date.

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Jerrytex
01-22-2023, 11:01 AM
Looking good! Getting close!

mmadigan
01-23-2023, 02:53 PM
Looks great Ben!! That prop is beautiful:). Keep plugging away, it will be worth every minute in the end...

Benbell4140
02-18-2023, 09:34 AM
Almost ready for primer [emoji41]
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alexM
02-18-2023, 10:24 AM
I know it seems like a shame to paint over carbon but one of these days the "carbon look" will be like platform shoes and wide neck ties.

Benbell4140
02-18-2023, 03:20 PM
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230218/a9ea07a976e78c88096d1653f1dc4674.jpg


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Benbell4140
03-16-2023, 07:59 PM
Finishing touches! Getting close to inspection. Lots of parts still in primer waiting for weather to cooperate for final paint.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230317/f0bad5b2f35ff7288647e5c4ad5dab37.jpg

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ken nougaret
03-17-2023, 12:53 PM
That's good news Ben! I hope to see it in person some day.

Benbell4140
03-17-2023, 05:21 PM
Thanks Ken. Same to you bud.


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airlina
03-18-2023, 02:58 AM
Really looking sharp Ben , some great homemade touches on your plane that I see . You'll be glad you persevered through the project once you fly it , and I suspect that will be soon. This year marks 20 years flying my Series 5 and I still get excited to fly her every chance I get . Bruce N199CL

bbs428
03-18-2023, 03:12 AM
A lot of hard work Ben. Cowl really turned out fine and the plane looks super!
I like your wing cuffs as well. They fit like a glove! What do you use to mold/form the cuffs, modelers clay?
My wings just went on and would like to try to do the same but never attempted any carbon f. work.

Benbell4140
03-18-2023, 06:14 AM
Hey Brett. Thanks for the kind words. I did use clay to form the fairings. Just took my time and shaped the clay using various straight edges. I had first laid packaging tape over everything. The carbon is pretty easy to work with. Just make sure the resin is mixed properly and lay the “oversized” carbon over the mold. It’s pretty sticky so it doesn’t want to sag on the bottom or anything like that. I did use a mold release spray also. I then popped them off the next day and rough cut the outside shape with shears then final sanded the edges.


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Benbell4140
04-30-2023, 11:57 AM
Airport day! It’s now in that hangar waiting for inspection.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230430/74cfd676ab9f3a9d8071261431cd4688.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230430/29595b2f290f87817610d4e27d44c4d0.jpg


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ken nougaret
04-30-2023, 01:13 PM
Congrats Ben! It looks great!
How long before inspection?

Benbell4140
04-30-2023, 01:56 PM
Congrats Ben! It looks great!
How long before inspection?

Hey Ken. Should be scheduled any day now. Paperwork was approved 2 weeks ago. Really looking forward to it.


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DesertFox4
04-30-2023, 02:41 PM
Congrats Ben.👍
Best of luck with your first flight and phase 1.

Benbell4140
04-30-2023, 02:42 PM
Congrats Ben.[emoji106]
Best of luck with your first flight and phase 1.

Than you!


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Kitfox Pilot
04-30-2023, 02:52 PM
That's Great Ben, can't wait to see that first flight!

airlina
04-30-2023, 03:33 PM
Way to go Ben, I'm sure your trip to the airport with the plane on a trailer was a lot more taxing than the first flight will be . Plane looks great have fun. Bruce N199CL

Redline
05-03-2023, 01:10 PM
Congrats Ben!

Shadowrider
05-03-2023, 09:48 PM
Awesome! Looking good!

jrevens
05-03-2023, 11:05 PM
Congratulations, Ben!! It looks sweet! I talked to Richard B... he said it's a work of art (more than once)! :)

Benbell4140
05-04-2023, 04:39 AM
Congratulations, Ben!! It looks sweet! I talked to Richard B... he said it's a work of art (more than once)! :)

Thanks.. I told him the same thing about the T18. You sure built a fine example!


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P Johnson
05-04-2023, 11:04 AM
Ben

Good luck with your first flight and thanks again for the help you have given me in the past.

Paul.

bbs428
05-04-2023, 01:24 PM
Just read through your build again Ben. A fine job! It's a great read on how to "keep your eye on the prize."

All the best on your maiden flight. Enjoy!

Benbell4140
05-04-2023, 05:20 PM
Thanks everyone! I’ll keep you all updated.


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Benbell4140
05-04-2023, 05:25 PM
Also… I have another kit..not kid one way. [emoji41]
I’m going to build a rans S21 next. And no, the Kitfox isn’t for sale lol.


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alexM
05-04-2023, 07:23 PM
Also… I have another kit..not kid one way. [emoji41]


Slight difference. The S21 should be cool!

Benbell4140
05-19-2023, 09:21 AM
Done!!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230519/1ab3bea27587adbc1cfb99a2ed186ce5.jpg


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ken nougaret
05-19-2023, 09:45 AM
Congrats! Can't wait to here about first flight and performance numbers.

ken nougaret
05-19-2023, 10:11 AM
Ben, what was your final empty weight?

Kitfox Pilot
05-19-2023, 10:15 AM
That's Great Ben!

Benbell4140
05-19-2023, 01:15 PM
Ben, what was your final empty weight?

Thanks everyone. Final weight was 859


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cpdutch
05-23-2023, 12:08 PM
Ben, your build log is great to read through - appreciate your efforts!
I have a question about attaching the bottom of the firewall. You show a couple pictures of the firewall, but all of them are from above, and my interest is in how you attached the bottom. The instructions say to install a 1/4" bolt in the firewall (2 places) at the nose gear attach points. I have done that, and enlarged the access points in the floorboards so I can get to the top of the bolt holes from above. My question is whether you installed the bolts with the bolt head on top, or on bottom, and what type of nuts you used. I would nominally use a "nylock" locking nut, but with the normal approach, that would mean I would have a nut and 3 threads hanging off the bottom - not good aesthetically or aerodynamically. Reversing them means going against the convention of sacrificing the nut but the bolt stays in-place should the nut come loose. I am comfortable with the nylock nut on the top, except that this is a firewall, and potentially subject to higher heat than other areas of the aircraft.

Can I ask what you did for these attach points?

Benbell4140
05-23-2023, 12:52 PM
Ben, your build log is great to read through - appreciate your efforts!
I have a question about attaching the bottom of the firewall. You show a couple pictures of the firewall, but all of them are from above, and my interest is in how you attached the bottom…
Can I ask what you did for these attach points?

Sure I’ll Help in any way that I can. I’ll send you a PM and some pictures.


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efwd
05-25-2023, 10:24 AM
I have posted back on June 11 2017, my #202 post. You will find pics of how I accomplished the flush mount and fit of this part. I used Hysol to secure the U-channel. Its still stuck. It isn't structural so nothing to be concerned about really.

Benbell4140
07-15-2023, 01:40 PM
Well my buddy Josh took her up for the first flight today! Everything went great other than CHT’s got a little hot. He said it flys great! I’m gonna do some lower cowl work to hopefully lower the temps. Had variable winds gusting to 17 and Josh said the kitfox handled it perfectly.


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ken nougaret
07-15-2023, 02:33 PM
That's good news. I knew it would fly great.
You'll get those cht's down without a problem.

Kitfox Pilot
07-15-2023, 03:12 PM
Congratulations! I bet she flies great. We do need pictures too!

Benbell4140
07-15-2023, 03:53 PM
Congratulations! I bet she flies great. We do need pictures too!

Thanks! I tried but I was at the hangar monitoring the handheld radio. Our runway is 8000’ long so I was on the wrong end for photos. Photos to come on other flights!


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Jerrytex
07-16-2023, 05:56 AM
That's awesome man.....

Congrats!

jrevens
07-16-2023, 09:28 AM
That’s great, Ben! I knew it would fly good… our friend Richard told me what a craftsman you are, and how nice it is. Good goin’!!

DesertFox4
07-16-2023, 11:05 AM
Congrats Ben. You did a great job on the build. 👍 First flight proves quickly what a nice airplane you built. Standing by for photos/videos.

ken nougaret
10-21-2023, 06:22 AM
Have you been flying Ben? How's your temps?

Benbell4140
10-21-2023, 06:34 AM
Hey Ken. I have been flying a lot just not in the kitfox. I’ve been working on my instrument rating in a 172. We ran into a few issues on the kitfox engine but have it just about ready to continue phase 1.


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