Construction

Post first start corrections

This entry was posted in Final Testing Firewall Forward on by

After the first start, there were a few squawks we discovered. First, in the third startup we were not able to get the prop to cycle. Research after the fact showed folks reporting that a higher RPM is required to get the oil flowing on first start for the whirl wind props. 2000 – 2300 RPM were suggested. Tonight I set about testing that – sure enough it worked! The prop now cycles appropriately.

Amazingly I had not put a gasket under the magneto! Yikes! And I had two sitting on hand. So I had to remove the magneto, install a gasket, and retime. I did my best to mark the magneto position and lock the gear in place, but I still had to verify the timing. I got it spot on.

Also found the oil cooler scat tubing is rubbing on my oil dipstick. I put a couple solutions in place, but I fear neither are long term solutions. I will need a more secure method of holding it in place.

The baggage door lock had been problematic during first start. The latch came apart due to a fault bushing I had damaged carelessly closing the baggage door previously. So for first start up I had to tape the door shut. It was an easy fix tonight and the baggage door was good as new.

I also went over the plane with a fine tooth comb looking for any loose items or other fixes.

Misc wrap up work

This entry was posted in Cowling Electrical on by

Getting ready for the first engine start… but most of the things on my checklist for the engine start are complete. Many of the remaining items on my list need to wait until after the first start. So I worked on a number of small projects – some needed in the near future. Others not needed until whenever I decide I want them done.

Projects accomplished tonight. Some temporary seat covers made from pillow cases. Instrument panel white led lights hooked up. Foil added to the bottom cowl. Wheel pant fiberglass work. The instrument panel white LED lights are bright and will need adjustments. First, I need to bring them aft about one inch. This will provide much better visibility and reduce shadows on the panel. Second, I need to shorten the LED strip. Its a bit too long at the moment, which means my eyes can catch direct light at both ends of the strips. Shortening the lights will have the secondary effect of reducing the amount of light output. Currently its a bit too much even a low levels.  Lastly, I’ll need to improve the wire routing – its a bit ugly at the moment, but its functional and works as a proof of concept. Plenty of time between now and final paint!

Canopy Installation

This entry was posted in Showplanes Fastback on by

This post covers a couple different shop sessions, but it easiest to combine all here. First I installed the canopy on the rails. Next I started installing all of the latch mechanisms. I’m pretty sure I covered that on here way back when I initially did all the work. I did have to make some slight changes to the locking mechanism lengths.

I also created strike plates out of plastic at each end of the locking mechanism. I completed the taxi latch position. I used some tape and a little pressure to mark the appropriate drilling location.

I’m really happy with the result. The lock is still pretty stiff, but I suspect it will loosen with time. Also I over adjusted the gas strut, and it has less power than I would like. I’ll probably replace it at some point. (Edit: I replaced with one provided by my buddy Keith. I kept it much more stiff and I’m very happy with it.)