Thursday 6th June 2019

Music: Dido, Easy 90’s

The aim for today was to finish adding the instruments to the panel, install the left and right footwell trims so I can install the instrument panel and get rid of the myriad of associated boxes and packaging!

The spinner of the Airmaster which would look even better on the front of the aircraft. The only problem is I don’t have all the components to fit it. I found out today that I’m missing the M8 Round-Neck Nut Set (of course I am!) They’re not supplied with the engine and not supplied by the propeller manufacturer! Quite amazing really. However a call to CFS Aero and a set are on the way to me for tomorrow.
The G5 has now been installed and one of the Skyviews.
The interior footwell panels are pre-drilled which makes it easier however they still need trimming and you need to make sure you know how they are fitted before starting to rivet. I’ve used some Clecos to secure the panel before riveting.
On the rear panels I’ve made them removable but these don’t need to be removable so I’m riveting them.
Of course one was easy to fit and the other took ages…
However all done now and looks quite neat. There’s carpet to cover the floor area which will make it look a little less utilitarian!
Now that’s done and the panel is complete it can be fitted.
It’s secured with 2 screws either side of the panel and 3 screws that screw into the centre console. It provides a very secure fit but may benefit from a couple of lightweight supports at the top of the panel.
The final panel, all the network cables have been fitted and the glare shield fitted temporarily and powered up using the backup batteries. The G5 backup battery has finally run out so I can’t switch it on which is a shame but overall I’m pleased with the result.