Well I started!!!

Cut the hatch out using the techniques that Dave Wilshere suggests in his RCJI column and which were echoed by Ian Richardson of Permagrit fame. Ian has built a couple of T-33's and whilst I was ordering some tools from him, he gave me a load of hints tips and indeed suggestions, thanks Ian.

Well I was impressed with the straight lines on the hatch, Ian and Dave are on to something!!

The first part of the build is about installing the nose gear retracts, and two front formers.

Things went well until I tried to tack glue the former. My room for building is the conservatory and at this time of year it can get quite cool. The CA did not want a quick set, and I can't find my kicker, so after the second gluing attempt that came loose when I tried to unscrew the retract flex plate, I decided to cut my losses and let it dry overnight!!!

The very front former will need a little edge sanding as it does not sit flush across the bottom of the fuse, its well cut, but a bit proud to settle down.

I'll do that probably next weekend, have some adventures work wise this week. Damn though it felt good to start it, I'll notch tonights work load up at 3 hours, although at least 1 one of those was moving the tools and bits from the attic to the conservatory!!!

This could end up being a long thread!!!

Gazzer