Let the fuselage begin

After reading the instructions several times, wading through many websites, blogs, and forum posts, I started to build. There is a dearth of specifics on how to do this, so my approach may or may not be best, but things are coming together.

I started with the Firewall bulkhead (401) and attached it as instructed, then attached the last bulkhead (412). Once they were both securely anchored (level, straight, and plum) then I had something to work with.

My good fortune was to have most of the bulkheads already constructed. If that is not your situation then is your next step, fact is you may be better off delaying your jig build until all your bulkheads are complete.

Placing all of the bulkheads in place gives you a real sense of accomplishment, even if they are just hanging there. Your neighbors might even start to recognize it as an aeroplane or something destined for lofty places.  I found a simple and effective way to temporarily place your bulkheads using 1" pieces of aluminum channel from an old shelf rack. If you leave it slighty loose, you can move the bulkhead around and position it correctly.

Bending the longerons seemed a little scary, knowing they are primary in the strength of this project. But doing so was not that difficult. I found that by clamping a block of wood on top of the vice at the exact bend point desired, it had the double effect of more securely holding the longerons and creating a bend that was identical on both sides. I bent both longerons at the same time where possible.

I also found that using the fuselage parts that fit between the bulkheads validated the measurement and placement of my bulkheads. These pieces are clamped in place temporarily.

I have not yet aligned all of the bulkheads. Once I have them all in place I will use string, a laser level, and carpenters lever to ensure they are straight and level. 



Things learned:

1. I am real happy to have a partially completed kit, just this fuselage seems overwhelming.
2. Placing packing tape on the backside edges of your drawings will help keep them from disintegrating. I have turned every one a hundred times its seems.
3. The instructions are not perfect. Bulkhead #407 had no slot for the longeron and no instructions for placing that slot. Don't even think about slotting the longeron!