What's the reason for covering the butt ribs?

[Peteohms]

To cover up the butt rib crack!

I couldnt help myself.

[Dave S]

Jon,

See attached photo - no buttrib covering onN128DD - just made some aluminum parts to cover the front and back core hole in the first wing rib and used a plexi sheet for the center over the site gauge. Then fabricated some aluminum to fit outboard and on the bottom of the buttrib to close off the pneumonia hole.

I rather like being able to see the sight gauges. Also no BR covering makes the door hinge bolts easily accessible.

Take a look at the cockpit video shot on John's web Site - no buttrib covering either.

Sincerely,

Dave S
KF7 trigear

[Dorsal]

No butt rib cover on mine, haven't noticed any issues