Step 6

Fuse jig.  Now we are ready to start welding

Step 5

Just finished fuselage jig, kristin is cutting the main strut supports to length

Step 4a

When the other 12 are done they will be bolted together then block sanded.  Then notched and matched for stringers ,cap strips , main spar, trailing edge, and leading edge.  Still have lighting holes to cut also.

Step 4

Ok so I've been talking with Dean about his 43012 weedhopper wing and have decided to use the underlayment  for the rib structure,  I am watching weight carefully so the "lightning holes will be considerably larger.  The 1/4 in thickness with the channeled cap strips will provide more than enough rigidity.  I'll post photos as I progress on this

Step 3

The ribs will be made from 1/16 plywood with 3/16 x 1/4 inch cap strips upon completion lightning holes will be drilled.  Just to give you an idea this rib is about 53" in chord length

Step 2

Step 1

Well, after waiting for the plans for 5 years and then looking at the said plans, it's time to get started.
Bernard seems to have a very sound approach to building this plane.  It was designed to be built with inexpensive stock, such as stainless steel and 6060 aluminum.   Since I believe his design is sound and simple. The only changes I'll be making are in the materials which will be aircraft grade.  This should not only make the aircraft stronger but lighter as well.

Let me say that I am sticking to the plans, so as not to change the design,  if I do make any changes they will be minor. And I do not and will not hold Bernard responsible for my actions.

I'll be building the fuselage at my daughters in Georgia,  the table and steel has been delivered. Next trip down we ll start cutting and jigging up the structure.   I am presently building the jig for the ribs and will post the pictures in the next few days.  4/24/15