Here's another approach to lifting the Legacy canopy.  There is no external handle.  Instead, leaf springs are mounted inside the edge of the canopy on either side near the lateral guide blocks (see first picture).  When the canopy is lowered, the leaf springs contact the fuselage keeping the canopy up about .75 inch (picture 2).  The dimensions and strength of the leaf springs are such that when the canopy is lowered, the canopy latch can just engage.  When you lock the canopy down, the springs collapse (picture 3).  When you open the canopy latch, spring pressure pops the canopy up about .75 inch (picture 4). 

 

I have not installed the pneumatic canopy seal yet so there could be some interference. I've been flying with this spring arrangement for about 2 months now and it seems to work well.  I'd appreciate any feedback the group may have on possible improvements or obvious drawbacks. 

 

Regards

John Richardson

Spokane WA

N16DX