With the canopy frame complete, I have moved forward to finish fitting out some engine systems. I ordered all of the supplies needed to fabricate, plumb and firesleeve all of the fuel and oil lines. The plans don't require firesleeving on these lines but for an added measure of comfort for me, I've decided to do it.
All of the hoses are stainless braided with Aeroquip fittings, silicone impregnated firesleeve with stainless straps. None of it is very cheap.
I discovered a builder's trick for sealing the ends of the firesleeve. Left untreated the fiberglass interior tends to fray. To seal these ends you dissolve red RTV in MEK and then dip the ends into the mixture. It takes a while and lots of stirring but the RTV will slowly dissolve into the MEK. I am really happy with the results.
