Measured out the two rear canopy frames this morning in preparation for cutting them to final length. For clarity, there are two rear canopy frames: The aft one which remains fixed to the upper longeron and the forward one which atttaches to the moveable canopy side frames.
First, I performed a little straightening on the rollbar as the left foot was slightly twisted compared to the longeron. I also spread the rollbar slightly so that it rests precisely on the longeron without putting stress on it. Then I clamped it into place on the longeron
Next, I placed the aft canopy frame into the cradle at the top of the rollbar and centered it in place. I then ran 2 hose clamps up the frame and clamped them into position on the rollbar. Next, I cut a strip of 5mm-thick plywood into small spacers and taped them onto the aft canopy frame facing forward. Then I placed the forward canopy frame against the spacers, centered it with the rollbar/aft frame, then taped the two frames together. This pairing is how the two frames will fit when the canopy is closed. I'm pleased to see that the curve of the two frames mirror each other perfectly. Thanks Zenith!
Next, I slid the two frames along the outside of the fuselage until they lined up in their final fore-aft position on both sides. When complete, the forward of the two frames will rest on top of the canopy side frames while the aft frame will attach to the upper longeron precisely 5mm behind the forward frame. Once everything was set into position, I marked the aft frame with a cut line even with the top of the upper longeron.
Tomorrow I start sawing.
Aft canopy frame attached to the rollbar with 2 hose clamps.
Both rear canopy frames (fore and aft) taped together with 5mm spacers between them.
The right-hand side showing the relationship between the two rear frames and the side frame.
