The RV-8 Sliding Canopy Latch is a slick system to solve a problem that nearly every RV-8 driver runs into: managing the canopy can be a pain in the neck when you’re strapped into the pilot’s seat. Our friend Mike Zeller came up with a nifty little device that allows the pilot simple, easy, and – most importantly – relentlessly effective control over the canopy’s position.
The device works by installing stops along the canopy track that are engaged by a clever swinging pendulum. Check out the video below, courtesy of RV builder Matt Dralle, that shows the sliding canopy latch in action.
Installing the canopy latch requires a short process that should be no problem for any RV builder or anyone with basic tools and experience. The latch installs just behind the pilot’s seat near the canopy rail. To operate the latch, slide the canopy back so that that pendulum passes over the latch stop and falls behind it. Slide the canopy forward only far enough that the pendulum drops into the track on the latch, then slide it back to the catch. The canopy will stay in this position until the user pulls it forward out of the track, then will move freely as normal. 
The latch will need some additional hardware to install. Since there are a variety of ways to install the unit, these items are not included, but most RV builders will already have the necessary items in their parts bin. Depending on your installation, you may need some or all of the following:
- AN3-14A bolt
- AN970-3 large washer
- AN960-10L thin washer
- AN960-10 washer
- AN365-1032 lock nut
- 2x 1″ x #6 screws and lock nuts (e.g. AN525C-6R16)
In the pictures included here, the builder has opted to fabricate an additional plate to cover the front of the latch piece, and another to act as a spacer behind the latch piece. These modifications are optional, and each installation may differ.
Installation Instructions:
- The latch can be mounted on either side of the aircraft. Choose which side you prefer.
- Check the fit of the aluminum bushing to the canopy frame. The bottom of the bushing may need to be trimmed to accommodate the weld on the frame. Make sure that the pendulum does not interfere with the movement of the canopy along the full length of the track
- Mount the pendulum and bushing in place on the canopy frame using an AN970-3 washer and AN3-14A bolt.
- Slide the canopy to the position you would like to latch it in and mark the position on the canopy rail just ahead of the canopy roller.
- Mount the stationary latch piece in the marked position, using the included spacer. Make sure that the latch is in position to line up with the pendulum, and that the hook on the latch is both up and aft.
- Test for fit and function and make any necessary adjustments
Special thanks to RV Builder Matt Dralle for sharing his photos and videos and allowing us to use them.
If you would like to learn more about the Sliding Canopy Automatic Latch or purchase one for yourself, please visit the product’s page at https://flyboyaccessories.com/products/rv-8-sliding-canopy-automatic-latch-sliding-canopy-latch-default