As I mentioned earlier, I am refabricating the pilot side collective well to better accomodate the aft kick panel, but more importantly to replace the .032 metal base with .063 for a control platform.
I was a little concerned about bending such a think metal due to potential cracking. I adjusted the brake to allow for the best radius possible, and with the sound direction and advice of my buddy Tom, I slowly bent the metal to 90 degrees without incident. I was sure to layout the piece and cut with the bends against the grain of the metal to avoid snaping.
I am amazed how much more substantial this base is in comparison to the earlier thickness.
I then remade the small side panel that rests against the seat frame. The last photo shows it assembled and mocked in place. There are no fastners installed at this point, so the fit is loose at best.
There were a nuber of fine tuning tweaks I made to the surrounding panels to insure the best fit possible. Everything seems to take longer than expected, but these are critical pieces that will be seen once the cabin is completed. I want to be pleased and proud of my work.
I'm happy with all the cuts, bends, fit, and finish.
