My plan today was to finish enough of the baffle fabrication that I could start figuring out how the air intake system is installed. Since the baffles are common to all types of O/IO-360 Lycoming engines, including those that employ a vertical induction (versus the horizontal induction on my engine), I figured that there were probably some steps that I didn’t necessarily need to complete since I would be cutting a large hole in the left front ramp. Unfortunately, while the baffle plans are very detailed and organized, the induction system installation plans leave a little bit to be desired. Just based on the looks of the induction snorkel, I suspect there will be some redundant…or unnecessary work done before I’m finished.
The biggest challenge today involved fabricating two gussets that conform to the curve of the inlet on both lower outboard sides. It took me two attempts on each side to get something that looked ok...and would function properly. As in most things “homebuilt”, there is a steep learning curve, and I figured out after scrapping a couple of pieces of .032 aluminum what worked…and what didn’t.
The third picture shows the area where the floor of the ramp will be cut in order to install the snorkel...I have a sneaking suspicion that I might be undoing a lot of what I've done. Tomorrow will tell.
