SECTION 07: Rudder
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Before you start:
Build Instruction Updates
- Check for more recent updates here
- CN-00168 Empennage KAI Update: Download Section 7 Rev 1 AND the new Section 7_A1 (Rev 0) from Van's CN-00168 page before starting. Section 7_A1 adds the last row of holes at the bottom of the rudder skin that were not drilled on some shipped skins.
- Rudder skin quality check: Van's issued a service notice about a small batch of rudder skins with possible issues at the trailing edge and front LE bend. Check both locations before beginning assembly.
Videos
- Van's RV-15 Build Ep. 22: Building the Rudder | Empennage Kit Begins - Average Joe's Airspeed Acres
Modifications to Consider
Special Tools / Supplies
- DIY PVC tube tool (for rod end bearing installation and torque — see Louise Hose build log for dimensions)
General Build Notes
- Estimated build time: 10–12 hours. Almost entirely soloable.
- Reference AC 43.13 Section 7 for crows foot calculations and torque values.
Revision History
- R0 - Initial release to builders
- R1 - Rudder skin part corrected to shows all holes. Added Section 7A1 (R0) to correct for a small batch of rudder skins missing a row of holes.
Specific Build Notes:
Page 07-06 (R1)
- Check your nutplates - wrong part shipped. Several builders received K1000-06 (a #6-32 nutplate) instead of K1000-6 (3/8-24). Source
Page 07-07 (R1)
- Rudder horn rivets: Very tight clearances at the rudder horn. Bucking is often easier than squeezing at these locations.
Page 07-10 (R1)
- Rod end bearing installation: use DIY PVC tube tool + second person to set and torque bearing.
- Suggest 14mm crow foot for better fit to jam nut than 9/16.
Page 07-12 (R1)
- Add LE roll (edge break) BEFORE stringers: Add the leading edge roll to the rudder skin before installing any stringers.
Page 07-14 (R1)
- Starboard skin overlaps port skin: Verify orientation before final riveting.
- Stiffener vibration tip (NOT in KAI): Before closing the rudder skin, place a small blob of soft sealant (Dowsil 737, ProSeal, or Right Stuff) at the ends of each internal stringer where they nearly meet. Prevents vibration-induced cracking in service. See section 5.7 in Section 5.