1. The first thing we have done with the fuselage is to permanently fit the wing attach fittings, fin and tailplane attach fittings and the tailwheel attach fittings. The internal brackets on bulkhead 6 and 7 have also been fitted with hardware that we had in stock. We still need some long bolts and to fit the shrinkage washers. We needed to fit all these parts permanently to allow us to construct our support jig. The jig allows us to roll the fuselage over 90 degs. each way. This means we have access to the underfloor area without having to work lying on the floor.

2. Various permanent brackets, washers and plates, hydraulic component mounting plates and fixtures have been fitted to bulkheads 2, 3 and 4. This includes bulkhead 2 armour plates and rudder pedals. Also we have fitted the under cockpit floor beams in the canon bay.

3. We have completed the tailwheel assembly overhaul and trial fitted it to the fuselage.

4. We have re-assembled the elevator trim jack. Dismantled the flap rams for inspection and overhaul. Both rams require shaft chrome and new tubes.

5. The wiring continues and we have completed wiring up junction box ‘B”

6. We have fabricated a new cover for the camera hatch in the rear fuse.

7. We have completed fabrication of the new rudder actuator rod.

Woodwork

Work this month has centered around building the tailplane. Both spars front and rear have been completed and fitted with rib posts and block. All the ribs are now made, the skins have been cut and scarfed up and are ready for installation.The leading edge members are also made and ready to assemble on jig.

Work has also begun on making the wing ribs,a total of 33 in all. Laminating jigs and profile cutting templates have to be made first.

Work has also started on the main wing spars. These have been drawn out full size front and rear. The laminations for these will be cut in a frame saw, which is a little like a big bread slicer. The wood has been selected and by next month we should have the laminates cut ready to splice and glue.