thanks again, Lnewqban....
       this is for that same plane. when i blew the prints up, i studied as many specs as as could find to come up with a suitable expansion number. as it is getting nearer the covering stage, i find myself questioning it's weight because it's it seems to me that it's got a good bit of wood in it.  i've seen most of the spread sheets dealing with weight, size, volume, etc and engine size, i just wanted to run by you guys with more building experience.
      funny thing happens as you get older..... you realize you don't know everything and discover it's not a bad thing to refer to experienced knowledge!!.
                         you've been helpful,
                                          ron.