I made some great progress this week, starting with getting the first couple of bits of painting done on the forward bulkhead and floor area as a test. This area will mostly be out of sight if I didn't like the finish but it's looking good so far. I've treated corrosion with Jenolite, used etch primer where it's down to bare metal, painted and then finished with an underguard which I hope will provide a hard wearing finish for the floors. The remainder of the metal work will get a regular satin paint finish. I'm aiming for a 'used but not worn out' look - it's an old aeroplane and I don't want it to appear brand new, but I also need the finish to stand up to some traffic as it'll be a live simulator cockpit when complete.
I've also been sent some files and a quote for laser cut main instrument panels (port and starboard) and I'll be placing an order for a couple of these in aluminium once I've confirmed the scale is ok. In the meantime I printed a couple of PLA dummy panels to test. I couldn't resist taping them roughly in place for a photo!
I've also started on the clean up of the windscreen assembly. I've been chasing a lead on some original glazing for some time but will probably have to mock up some perspex or acrylic for the windscreens at least. I'm hoping this is a project I can use as a training exercise when I start to use the CNC mill we have at work.
Earlier this week I checked through the parts I picked up on my recent trip, all are useable for my build and have moved things forward significantly. Some require a bit of TLC and I'm trying to source the missing switches and components. To complete the first couple of smaller panels I need a flaps switch, U/C indicator, stores jettison buttons, emergency gear and flaps pulls and the large grey brake chute toggle switch.
As always if you have anything that may help please get in touch!