I need to drill the elevator horns for the pushrod. My horns are fairly aligned, but I would say the left side horn is the one further back. So I marked the hole according to the dimensions on the drawings.
This is when I noticed a whoops.
Turns out the other horn is a tad lower than the other one. And surprise, surprise the tallest one is the one I chose to drill. Making the other hole with less edge distance than the other
To be exact the measurement on the other horn will be about 0.305" as opposed to 0.375" as stated on the plans. Better call Vans.
When I called Van's Tech support Monday morning, we went through a few options of what I can do. Even adjusting the "height" of the elevators was an option if the pivot point isn't drilled. I asked about welding. Vans response is it's possible. But the disadvantage there is that the power coating needs to be removed for welding and a new coating be applied. Very important on these weldments as they can easily start to rust. Ultimately tech support felt I was going to be just fine with my particular issue. Although I didn't have 2x edge distance (0.375") I was better than 1.5x edge distance (0.28125") and it was still very safe.
Personal note: I can take a file and walk that pilot hole down, allowing my new pilot hole to gain a few thousands in edge distance. Theoretically if I do it perfect I can move the pilot hole 1/32" (0.03125")....realistically I'll likely be able to move the hole 1/64" (0.015625"). That would allow a final edge distance of 0.320"
