The "major portion" calculation is based on a checklist.  Checkmarks are put in each column, one column for the kit manufacturer, one column for the builder.  In some cases you'd have checkmarks in both columns.  You add up the checkmarks.  If you have more checkmarks in the builder column, you have a 51% approved kit.  That may sound like an oversimplification, but that's how it works.

 

Form 8000-38 is included at the end of the proposed FAA Order 8130-2.

 

There are 18 line items under "propulsion".  They include "fabricate engine", "install engine", "fabricate propeller", "install propeller".

 

There another section titled "cockpit/interior".  Some line items include "fabricate instrument panel", "install instrument panel", "fabricate electrical wiring controls/switches" and "install electrical wiring controls/switches".

 

There aren't any sections for paint or interior.

 

My guess is Lancair ran the "checkmarks" at some point on the ES, and other models and got the kits approved by the FAA.  As we all know, we can buy fastbuild firewalls, fastbuild engines, completed panels, even electrical harnesses for some models.  Those items are listed in the checklist, so they DO affect the kit manufacturer vs. builder percentage.  Maybe Lancair had a few extra checkmarks in the builder column when the calculation was done so they could provide engines, firewalls and panels without losing the 51%.

 

After a kit is approved, any changes to the kit require a reevaluation, running the checklist again.  It's my understanding that the ES Fast-Build kit is approved, but I can't help wondering if the Millennium Super Fast-Build ES kit was reevaluated.  After taking a good look at the checklist, I'm not sure how we got more checkmarks in the builder column to be honest with you.

 

Mike