I started by installing accessory case items, as this area is less accessible when the engine is mounted. This included a Monkworkz MZ-30 generator (a backup to my main alternator) and the coil packs for the SDS EFI. The oil… Read More »Engine Mounted!
I prepared the fairings per the plans (this was a lot of work with many iterations—lining up rounded parts is tricky, and I wanted to get these well aligned with the airstream). I used jack stands to raise the airplane… Read More »Gear Leg and Wheel Fairings
Lifting the fuselage to install the landing gear was the primary challenge in completing this step. The fuselage accumulates a lot of weight by this stage in the build. We removed the tail feathers to make it more manageable. After… Read More »Landing Gear Installed
I made two jack stands to raise the airplane for the installation of the gear leg fairings. I plan to use these jacks for future maintenance. I purchased two 3-ton long ram flat-bottom hydraulic jacks from Harbor Freight. I made… Read More »Jack Stands
I followed the Van’s fiberglass fairing how-to video series to bond the windscreen to the aluminum skin and build up the fairing. I started by marking the upper edge of the windshield fairing. I 3d printed a template with the… Read More »Windshield Fairing
I opted to use Cee Bailey windows when I ordered my finish kit. I have nothing to compare it to, but the overall fit of the Cee Bailey windshield was poor and required a lot of trimming. The lower left… Read More »Windshield Installed
I used the Silpruf method for installing the windows. I used Cee Bailey windows and black Silpruf SCS2000. I started by trimming the windows to a 5/32″ gap. The Cee Bailey windows fit well on the left side, but needed… Read More »Windows Installed
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 will be installing the Aerosport Glare Shield cover, but I also chose to paint the glareshield to protect it and black out areas that might be visible at the edge of the cover. I used a matte black Rustoleum… Read More »Glareshield Painted
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