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29-02 to 03 Joining FWD and MID LWR Fuselage Structures

The accuracy of this kit is just amazing!

The FWD and MID LWR Fuselage Structures slid together and fitted perfectly.

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I had previously primed the areas of the skins which overlap, but I also coated the mating surfaces with JC5A as normal.

I propped up the rear with a cardboard box to ensure it was at the correct angle as we moved it into position.

Drag Fittings

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The upper & lower Drag Fittings are bolted into place, but not fully tightened at this stage.

The bolts were a snug fit, and needed a gentle tap to insert fully home.

Center Section Side Plate

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The Center Section Side Plate is then clecoed into position, and the Upper Drag Fitting clamped firmly.

The bolts are then nipped up but not torqued.

I found it easiest to use a 6″ #40 Drill Bit to match drill, allowing better access.

The reflection in the Side Plate enabled a perpendicular hole.

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Once all match drilled, the Center Section Side Plates are removed for deburring the holes ready for reassembly.

The holes will be final drilled to #30 later on.

The Lower Drag Fittings will be permanently in place during the next stage, so even though the bottom holes will be final drilled, I primed them ready for assembly.

I also leapt ahead to 29-05 and prepared the VA-146’s and Shims ready to fit the Control Column Assembly.

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