Both spars clecoed together. Careful observers will note my first
(of many) errors.
HS skeleton clecoed together
More detail on HS skeleton showing use of spring clamps.
HS cradel jig, according to instructions. Ignore instructions,
move these much closer together. I used electrical tape to prevent
scratching the skins (yes, it is white). Much time was spent making
sure these were level and plumb. Not as critical as you would think,
because you end up moving the jigs around and sliding the HS assembly around
anyway.
Left half of HS ready to match drill. Notice Sioux 3600 Palm
Drill. Purchased from Brown Tool on sale, and it's a pleasure to
use.
Dimpling HS skin. Prop bar is aluminum 'U' channel from another
project. Ends are ground down, leaving small nipples that are inserted
into holes in skin to keep them apart during dimpling.
Ribs after cleaning with lacquer thinner and Dawn dishwashing detergent.
No, I didn't wash them in the Spa!
Spars after cleaning. Yes it was dark!
Painting table made of scrap lattice and plywood.
Painting table and primed HS parts. Next time, I will spread
parts out more to allow easier access with paint gun.
HS Primed parts and skin. Everything is green!
The Alpha Male. The turbine fan in the back is used to keep me cool
while I'm working.
Inspection microscope used to determine quality of primer coverage
on parts.
Assembly of primed HS spars.
Nose ribs riveted in place. Note how close together the cradle
jigs are in this photo.
HS art shot.
Anothe view of HS with nose rivets riveted in place.
Webmaster/Builder. Note drill and rivet charts taped to heating ducts--
this keeps them handy. See also the whiteboard in the back of the
shop-- it's useful for notes and calculations. The little red bin
in the foreground is from my handy parts storage box (see Toolspage).
Photos of (nearly) completed HS. Aft spar will be attached after MD-RA inspection (required in Canada).
Storage (option 1)
Storage (option 2).