SonexBuilders.net

Can someone or everyone please send me Ideas on how to Secure the Canopy from the outside. Thanks

I use the method shown in the plans. Works well for me.

Peter Anson Canopy Latch.

http://www.ansoneng.com/sample-page/pro ... ety-latch/

Seeing Graeme has already given me a plug I'll add some information. In the photo below of the B model canopy latch you can see a 6mm hole through the press-release button on the outside handle. You can fit a small padlock through that hole to prevent the canopy from being opened.
Let's face it; it's only going to keep honest people out, but that's pretty much the case with the standard Sonex arrangement too.

Peter

GraemeSmith wrote:Peter Anson Canopy Latch.

http://www.ansoneng.com/sample-page/pro ... ety-latch/

Second. I LOVE my Peter Anson latch. So positive and secure from inside or out (put a padlock through the hole in the external push button.

XenosN42 wrote:I use the method shown in the plans. Works well for me.

It does. Other methods are fine I guess but add complexity & weight. Been using the plans method for over 10 years and it works well.

I added a cabinet lock that, if fitted correctly, allows the canopy to be locked with a key from the outside only. Don't think it would stop a thief but at a fly-in if I have to be away from the plane it usually deters those that might want to open the canopy & play with the controls or the buttons ...

Be interesting to hear from folks who lost canopies that opened during taxi or take off roll.

I am GUESSING - they closed the canopy but failed to pin it. It's a TWO step operation. The canopy slide slid back and bazinga.

The Anson latch - you HAVE to engage it fully as part of a ONE step operation to close and lock the canopy.

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The Anson latch has an advantage of being able to be operated from outside by a rescuer. If you pin yourself into the cockpit - it's a bit harder for rescuers.

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Disclosure - I have the Anson latch....

I hate to admit it....but I forgot to pin the canopy once, and nothing bad happened.

I use the Peter Anson canopy latch modified by Peter to fit a OneX. Works great, love it.
Tnhelm
Onex 0137

Rick524 wrote:I hate to admit it....but I forgot to pin the canopy once, and nothing bad happened.

You were fortunate. I recall at least two instances where the canopy did open in flight and despite having a harrowing experience, both were able to land safely. I'll bet those pilots never forgot to install the pin again.

Art,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Sonex taildragger #95,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Jabiru 3300 #261