Tools and Materials

     The factory literature and the construction manual mention that a Velocity can be built mostly with tools that are commonly available at local hardware store.  While this is generally true, there are a few that does have to come from aircraft tools specialists.  I am compiling a list of tools and materials I have used to date for construction of my Velocity.  I do not include any items that comes as a part of the kit or any items that remains as a part of the finished aircraft such as structural materials, fasteners, finishing supplies, electronics, and avionics.  The list is not a complete one until the aircraft is flying since I am likely to add more.

     While I was compiling the list, I have attempted to classify the list into four categories.  These are differentiated by the color of the texts as follows.

• Critical - These are the tools and materials, in my opinion, without which completion of the kit is seriously jeopardized.
• Important - These are items which can significantly ease and/or accelerate the construction process
• Recommended - These are item which are helpful and should be considered as a part of common sense convenience.
• Convenience - Items that really are not necessary but can be handy if you have them. 

     To tell you the truth, I really do not like this method.  It's way too busy visually and it does not allow you to slice the information dynamically.  I would much rather have an interactive pivot table than this but I really don't want to go overboard putting this simple stuff into SQL and drive an ASP page.  An easier way exists but I also do not like to introduce platform dependency.  As an experiment, I have created a excel sheet that is semi-interactive on another page.  Let me know which format you prefer or have problem viewing it, especially on Non-Microsoft platforms.  Note that the Excel page is not complete since it is just an experiment.

Aircraft Tools

Clecoe Puller

Sweaging Tool

Aircraft Countersink

Pipe Cutter

Pipe Bender

Epoxy Pump / Dispenser

Power Tools

Cordless Drill with Bits

Cordless Jig-Saw

Cordless Circular Saw

Cordless Motor-Tool

Variable Speed Motor Tool

Portable Halogen Lighting

Portable Space Heater with Thermostat

Shop Vac

Orbital Sander

General Hand Tools

Consumables

Plastic Sheet

Duct Tape

Mixing Cups

Tongue Depressor

Paper Towels

Trash Bags

Acetone / MEK

Rubbing Alcohol

Vaseline

Masking Tape

Penciles

Permanent Markers

2 x 4's and other scrap Lumber

Twine

Ropes

Sand Papers (assorted)