EAA Chapter Creates Enhanced Inspection Covers For Fabric Aircraft

Marty Harris, a lifetime owner of classic, fabric aircraft, has tackled a longstanding hassle of ownership and inspection: riveted inspection covers. "Pilots and mechanics alike working on fabric aircraft have been waiting 90 years for an easier and less damaging way to remove and install inspection covers," Harris said upon announcing his product. 

The FAA approved assembly kit is available for new applications or existing covers on Experimental and Light Sport Aircraft with fabric skins. An A&P mechanic sign-off may be used to replace troublesome inspection covers on certificated aircraft as per Advisory Circular 43.13.1. The change frees inspectors and pilots from the irritation and paint scoring that often accompany traditional covers. Harris workshopped and iterated his ideas, eventually settling on "a simple design," he said. It "allows the cover's retaining spring to be partially loosened with screws when removing and then secured tightly when installing," solving a long time hassle. Harris took his idea to international Aerobatic Champion, Patty Wagstaff, who now uses cover on her ACA Super Decathlon. 

His EZ-UP Kits are sub-assembled, inspected, and packaged by the Mid Florida EAA Chapter 534 aviation youth group operating at Florida's Leesburg International Airport. Squadron 354 not only raises funds for the continued educational operations of the chapter's youth programs, but it teaches the students manufacturing, marketing, and business skills. The entirety of the proceeds will go towards aircraft building, repair projects, and activities for the group. For now, interested buyers can purchase the kits the old-fashioned way by contacting Plane Parts Inc. in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. The EZ-Up kits are a small-batch item and quantities are limited, call direct to order. 

FMI: www.planepartsinc.com