for both the builder and the inspector. The builder can use torque
seal to mark a connection or adjustment that is complete, and when
the inspector sees torque seal on the connection, he or she will know
that the builder completed the task. (The inspector will check to
make sure things are tight anyway!) Take time to watch the Hints for
Homebuilders clip on torque seal application (find a link at www.
SportAviation.org).
Another detail that I often find to be in need of some attention is
safety wire installation. I frequently find safety wire that is overtwisted, installed backward (i.e., not in the tightening direction), or
just simply not installed at all. There’s a bit of an art as well as science involved in proper installation of safety wire, so a little practice
is a good thing. You’ll probably go through a little bit of safety wire
before you get the knack, but it’s worth the time and effort. Check
out my article “Safetying Nuts and Bolts” in the April 2010 issue of
EAA Sport Aviation for more info. You can also find good info on
safetying in Chapter 7 of FAA Advisory Circular 43.13-1B, Acceptable
Methods, Techniques, and Practices.
Speaking of the art of safety wire, one place where this is espe-
cially true is when safetying turnbuckles. The proper way to do this
isn’t readily apparent, and looking at the illustrations in AC 43. 13
Many builders use the “single wrap” method as shown in the top photo. I prefer the “double
wrap” method, similar to what’s shown in the bottom photo. Either is acceptable.
