I spent much of today just doing all the final prep work on the front deck components. I had a bugger of a time trying to get the centre rib out from the sub-panel section, so I decided to cut away a small piece of the rediculous, tight fitting, notch. The first picture below shows the small triangular shaped piece that I cut out. With this bit gone then it was a much easier task to get the rib out. Not the best bit of design work here Vans Aircraft guys.
After smoothing, deburring and dimpling, I then needed to acid etch and alodine the parts. My chemical tubs were not big enough so I did the pieces one half at a time. See the second picture.
After alodining then I gave all the pieces a coat of primer, ready for assembly tomorrow.
I just had to cut out a small piece of this sub-panel section
Alodining the front deck ribs
Front deck parts primed, ready for assembly tomorrow
