Although the plan did not call for it, I drilled two holes in the spare and then enlarged them using a unibit. This was the first time using one of these bits, so I wanted to practice using them. Plus it will give me a way to look inside the part once the skins are riveted in place.
The three remaining holes in the ribs presented me with my first issue. My squeezer would not fit between the two flanges, so the "special" tool as described on the plan was required. After getting a two pieces of mild steel, I fabricated the bucking bar, drilled a #30 hole and countersunk it so the male dimple die fits nicely in the hole.
I also was able to run by the local EAA adviser to show him my work, and to receive some feedback from him. He pointed out a few rivets that I had backed riveted and the rivet set slipped off the shop head causing the shop end having a slight angle to it. All in all he said I was well on my way and asked if I had ordered the kit yet. I haven’t just yet, just a matter of time.
