Finally. The doors feel like a neverending part of the project. After multiple iterations of micro and sanding, the doors smoothly transition to the cabin top. I gapped the doors to a gap of just under 1/8″. A lot of… Read More »Doors Complete
I upgraded to an Airflow Systems 2007X oil cooler and previously installed the modified mount. I made spacers for the bolts from AT6-058X5/16 and installed the oil cooler. I used a short bolt for the lower right as a full… Read More »Oil Cooler
I have completed everything that I can behind the panel (avionics prep, wiring of the electrical system backbone, brake and fuel lines, firewall hardware, etc.) so it was time to proceed with installing the upper forward fuselage skin. This will… Read More »Upper Forward Skin Installed
The aesthetics of the stock door handle leave a lot to be desired. The powder-coated handle is open at both ends and the gearbox mechanism remains fully exposed. Aftermarket options are available for dressing up this area but I decided… Read More »Door Handle and Gearbox Covers
I am installing Heat Shield Products Lava Mat on the firewall to help mitigate heat in the tunnel. I don’t know how much it actually helps but it adds a layer between the heater bypass valves and the tunnel and… Read More »Firewall Heat Shield
I ordered my finish kit in August 2021 and the front seats finally arrived. The seat foams are still on back order but at least I have the frames. Unlike the old seats, these require assembly. The box had unfortunately… Read More »Front Seats
I chose to delete the Van’s Grove wheels and brakes from the kit and upgrade to Matco I Series wheels and brakes. I also deleted the tires and tubes and purchased Desser retreads. The complete list of parts that were… Read More »Matco Wheels
I debated back and forth between using the stock cowl-attach hinges or quarter-turn fasteners and I decided to proceed with the hinges. I like the clean look and the simplicity of the hinges. I’m planning on using a 1/8″ stainless… Read More »Cowl Attach Hinges
I am using McMaster door seals which require that the hinge attachment areas in the door be covered to complete the seal. I didn’t like the idea of burying nutplates here (as used by one after-market option) but I liked… Read More »Door Hinge Pockets
With the interior painting complete it was time to permanently attach the cabin top. We mixed up flox per the plans to fill the areas around the door opening and lowered the top into place. We had to work quickly… Read More »Cabin Top Attached