Brief Description: Worked on AP and flight controls.
Installed the autopilot servo brackets on the aft end of the fuselage section. Drilling out the rivets and re-riveting was super easy due to the empennage not being attached yet. Crimped all the spade connectors to the two servos and set aside. Fabricated pushrods. Removed left panel section and made the opening for the AP control unit by drilling to the template and filing smooth. Test fit unit - very nice - see picture.
Went back to work on the flight controls. Adjusted sleeve lengths and completed the bolting in of the control columns. Caught one of the PTT wires on the left side under the head of the mounting bolt and squashed it. Grrrr. Had to remove it, cut it, and re-connect with a butt connector. Glad I caught it now and not when I powered up the com radio for the first time! Finished fabricating the control stick pushrods and installed.
Disconnected fuel line between pump and valve, slid tubing back for a better view of where I deformed the tubing to clear the flap handle mechanism. The deformation is not as bad as I thought. Indecisive about whether to replace the section. Sent pictures to Marty for second opinion.
