Unwavering and implacable, time advances. January 1, 2014 marks the second anniversary of this project. To me, it seems the pace would challenge a snail's attention and yet, it is remarkable how much has been accomplished in just one year.
On New Year's day 2013, I was still 3 1/2 months shy of completing the wings. Among other things, I still had the top skins to rivet, and the wing tips fit.
By mid April the fuselage arrived. I plowed through the fire wall and then began the unending series of ever smaller bulkheads that make up the tail cone structure.
And then came the dreaded bending of the longerons. It turns out this process is only 95% as bad as its online reputation. I really could not recommend it for its entertainment value, but as an educational tool, well, let's just say it's an education all by itself. One is not likely to fully appreciate what an obstinate thing aluminum angle can be -- until you try to beat a curve in to it.
With the longerons shaped, the tail cone was next.
And that was followed by the center section.
Which led to the forward section and the side skins.
Then a rotisserie was constructed.
The tail cone top skin, baggage compartment interior panels and seat pans were next.
At some point the propeller arrived.
And we finished the seat backs. Carol took the first ride.
I'm not sure, but she appears to be steering by reins. Either way, she's an unconventional pilot flying from the right hand seat.
Eventually, it was time to attach the wings and set their incidence.
And the horizontal and vertical stabilizers were bolted on.
Finally, the roll bar was set.
All of which brings us to the present. Here's to all of the progress of 2013.
Season's Greetings and Best wishes in 2014.
Inspiring! As I wrestle with my rudder...
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