Alan, Arrgh that hurts. \Sorry man! I know what a bad day at the field feels like from my experiences last weekend. The last thing you probably want to hear right now is to always range check, but buddy, I promise that I always do one. However even a range check won't detect all problems that vibration can cause while on the ground, or in flight. With my Pitts I do a range check with the motor running. I also have a mule plane that I use to test gear that I am suspicious of. It first goes in the mule before it goes in one of my nice airplanes. If it passes the test in flight , then it's welcome aboard and not before. This wouldn't have helped you considering the type of malfunction, but just another example of being extra cautious when it comes to potential failure. No short-cuts or they will get ch sooner or later.

Joe, I know how you can cut down on some weight there pal. The hardware you are using on that skinny little rudder is just massive. The wood in the rudder, hinges or both would give way long before that hardware would. I know you are upgrading to the YS, but even then it still seem like wasted poundage my friend.

Have to admit I did the same thing on my Pitts with the gasser, and then realized it afterward. Just wasn't necessary at all, but it looks good.

Also, if you are self employed you are the boss and can do as you please. Congratulation on living the dream my friend. I'm going to get back to work here one day when I get bored. This is the first time I have taken any time from my career in 28 years. It's been nice so far, but can tell that I will need to have something to keep the juices going until I am really ready to go into full time retirement. Not there just yet, but getting a taste and have to admit that I like it.