Start of Fuselage Assembly

Now it seems like some real progress is being made as I'm starting to install parts for the final time.  The floor, rudder and aileron controls basically have to be installed at the same time.  These pictures pretty much tell the story...

Floor with rudder and aileron controls installed

Front stick - grips are from a 1920's Harley Davidson
F-head which are a match to the originals 

Rear stick

Another shot of rear stick 

Rudder pedal with previously made cables installed

There is a cover that mounts to the floor above the torque tube between the front and rear sticks.  The original, as seen in this picture, was too corroded to use so a new one had to be made.  

Here's how it's done:  

1.  Start with a piece of aluminum the correct size and just hand roll a curve that matches the original.

 2.  I then used my bead roller with flat hem dies to form the flange.

3.  Drill the holes, check fit and voila - about a 20 minute project.

So next, I want to hang the engine to make and run engine controls, radiator, etc.  Having some issues, though,  with the fit of the engine mount that I'm working out.  The next post should show the engine temporarily installed.  

In the meantime, hope everyone has a great Easter holiday with family and friends!