XL improvemets

[flyover1974]

Hello Legal Eaglers,
My name is Hermann and im from the north of Italy in the Mountains.
First sorry fror my bad english and second this is a very good and useful forum.
I got the full xl Pans package from Leonard and want to build it. At the moment im quite finish with the 1/2 VW engine 94x86 bore and stroke.
2 mikuni carbs 32mm
Prop handmade 54x24 inch

Im a good mecanic and good skills in all metal and wood working.
Im build 3 years ago a cnc mill and want to produce most pieces on that mill.

I dont need to stay into the part 103 and so the weight are not a problem.

My question is where to build stronger (heavier) when weight is not important. What's about the ribs? Are they strong enough or better use thicker pieces of spruce?

Thank you
Hermann

[Tom XL-7]

Hermann 
Welcome to the group and congratulations on your engine and prop.
 Regardless of your freedom to carry some extra pounds:
Lighter is better than heavier.
 We have many flying examples and I am not aware of any structural deficiencies.
But if you must: 
We use an abbreviated covering method for lightness.
I would suggest a more conventional covering.
Not in weight of fabric but more coats of paint.
Ultraviolet light protection.
Perhaps add rib stitching and the additional tapes as well.
Another may be a second wing tank. One right, one left.
That would depend on how useful the additional fuel would be for your use.

Again welcome and please keep us advised of your progress
Tom XL-7

[Vince Carucci]

I think I remember some builders talk about bending the landing gear. Maybe use 4130 steel tubes with thicker walls. A few extra ounces/grams there may be worth the peace of mind.

Vince

[flyover1974]

Thank you Tom and Vince,

thats nice to hear no need mayor changes.
I saw a video on youtube of a harder landing where the right wheel axle or the axle holder bends and the wheel was crooked.
What do you think, better thicker wall or bigger outer diameter?