We checked all our measurements again and then drilled the vert. stab. front spar attach plate using a right angle drill. The clearance even with an angled drill was CLOSE! We then made a template and drilled the holes through the rear spar to the rear bulkhead and checked the measurements several times to make sure that they would hit the tie down bracket when we put it in. We then checked the alignment of the hinges on the rear spar and they were now very slightly off. So to make sure we didn't need a shim, we mounted the rudder and on the 3rd try, we got the rod end bearings just right so that there was no scraping and the gap was even along the edge and up over the vert stabilizer. Tomorrow we will take the vertical stabilizer off and do a few things before we put it back on........ When we finish the tail feathers, I think that we will do the firewall forward "stuff" and mount the engine next. I am afraid that it is too cold now to safely work on the Plexiglas canopy. Van's suggests that the shop should be at least 75-80 degrees before one can safely do any drilling or cutting on the glass.
