I did an initial trim of the skirt, cutting along the far line that I made (approximately 3/4″ outside of the “final” trim line). I like the proportions of this so much it may become the final trim line. The low spot, created by the rear canopy lip, is visible when holding a ruler to […]
Just a fun post showing a view from inside the plane. Sitting in this for the first time with the halves closed was a real trip.
The windshield on the plane has been perfunctorily cutout and set on the plane. The fit, overall, looks pretty good, with minimal areas of adjustment needed. However, if I’ve learned anything, it’s that these areas where you have to adjust for a perfect fit are deceptive, and likely you’ll spend roughly 143 weeks taking the […]
There’s a notable dip in the skirt, stemming from the high lip on rear of the canopy. I hoping a little filler will be able to go a long way here. Otherwise, the skirt is pretty fair from the tape technique used, and I’m overall very happy with it.
The first removal of the rear skirt proved is didn’t have enough structure. A few more layers of good cloth and it now proves to be structurally sound–remember, this piece will also be fastened permanently to the canopy, offering ample rigidity and suppport. Now it is time for careful trimming, filling, and sanding to prepare […]
I’m dreading this fiberglass around the canopy and windshield. I’ve heard horror stories. And I know I’m not starting with as perfect of a foundation as some. (My canopy is sitting a little high, and has some “lumps.”) That said, like most things I dread, I’ve thrown myself right at it. The first several layers […]
The side skirts were attached. Now first, I think I have to mention that the previous fitting issue with the frame was resolved with some brute force reshaping of the frame WHILE the canopy was attached to it. Scary, as I thought there was about a 50/50 chance the canopy would crack… With the canopy […]
The canopy latch blocks are chunks of Delrin that require a compound angle to accept the “spike” that holds the rear canopy down. Not overly difficult, but requires a fair amount of measuring, marking, and then creating a hold-down clamp for the drill press. Once drilled, these appear to push the canopy up slightly, increasing […]