Today I started mounting the hinges that attach the cowl to the fuselage. I was going to use Skybolt fasteners but decided the hinge method in the plans looks better, is stronger and offers more support to the cowl. On the downside it is not as easy to remove the cowl for service. I plan to work on this until it is almost as easy. I also know from looking at the other RV’s on the field the best way to attach the bottom of the cowl is platenuts and # 8 screws. The hinge on the bottom has a tendency to loosen up from the vibrations and drum of the exhaust, hence screws are a better solution. Next time in the shop I will mount the bottom plate for the platenuts and the side hinges. All the hinges need countersinking to match the rivet dimples and a .025 shim to spacer to allow for the cowl thickness.
