March 1, 2007

The 31" channels I cut on the 26th get trimmed and bent to attach to the tip rib that becomes the top of the stabilizer.  



This one becomes the forward spar channel.  



When I measure the cut and bend lines using a tape measure I always use the 2" mark as a starting point.  The clip riveted on the end always moves and is unreliable for measurements.



Once I've got the tape in place, I hold it there with a clamp so I don't have to worry about it moving.



I've marked the pilot hole locations here.  If you look closely you'll see that I've marked out upper on this channel - I started marking the wrong one.  Fortunately the forward and upper channels start as 31" blanks.



The pilot holes marked for drilling with a spring punch.



Pilot drilled to #40.



The rivet holes drilled on the upper flange.



As I was finishing cutting the flanges on the channel the blade on the bandsaw broke.  And of course I don't have a spare on hand.



The blade was properly adjusted and lubricated - I don't think it should have broken.  It has a limited lifetime warranty - so I'm gonna send it off and see what happens.  I don't expect much from a $10 blade, but lasting more that a few cuts in AL would have been nice.



Here's the front of the package - I coiled up the blade and taped it.  Now to find the reciept.



Its beginning to look like an airplane part.  




< Last Home Next >