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Note: As noted before, a computer crash and change over forced a less than graceful reconstruction of my builders log. In reposting this reconstructed log, rather than over writing the old log, Kitlog added the entire log a second time creating double posts up until the most recent posts. My log and hour totals (actually 1139 as of thisd post) are now all messed up online. Not so on my computer.

In preparation to raise the fuselage high enough to install the gear, the empanage fairing needed to be completed. This included the gap seals under the stabilizer.

About 45 nut plates were drilled, counter sunk and installed. Once located it is easier to complete the task with the fin, rudder, elevators and stabilizer removed, these were sequentially removed after drilling was complete. As this involved removing the elevator trim cables (that were a royal pain to install) I discovered in the last update f the VPX, I had disabled the pitch and roll trim inputs. To correct that little issue involved about 2 hours and two computes since, for some unknown reason, my new computer wouldn’t connect to the VPX. Another handy computer did the trick.

I also took this opportunity to do some rerouting of the trim and strobe wires into the rudder. They needed to absorb the flexing of the rudder movement without fatigue. Any movement will now be slight and spread over 6 inches of length. I also added some filler to the fairiangs while they are easy to access and sand.

Funny how great it was to get the stabilizer, elevator, fin and rudder attached, and how great it is to have them back off. They will not be reattached again until painted and final assembly at the airport.

Next step is to lift the fuselage and install the gear.

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