December 23, 2003

Cleaned up the front spar, and dimpled the flange holes to accept the dimples from the skin.

Also the attachment holes that are used to rivet the brace in place. Countersunk the corresponding holes in the brace.

Broke the Rudder Stops loose from the Rudder Strikers (don't use those until I build the rudder) and sanded/filed down the rough edges. Deburr as always! Fitted to the top bracket of the bottom hinge, and final-drilled the holes. Used adhesive remover to get the gunk off the hinge bracket left over from the adhesive label.

All of the parts are ready to scotch-brite, clean, & prime. I only have one question: the upper two front ribs don't fit as well as I think they should into the leading edge of the skin. They push on the skin enough to cause a deformity. I've asked Van's whether I should just remove enough material to make the ribs fit cleanly, and am waiting for an answer. Obviously, it'd be nice to know this before I start priming everything.

Unfortunately, several of the shots didn't turn out. Still remembering how to use this old camera!