Prop hub/Cowling alignment spacer methods?

[MichaelFarley56]

Hello All,

I'm ready to start on my engine cowling and after looking over the plans I see the spacer dimensions listed in the plans. It says to use particle board but after looking things over I'm not sure how to make the spacer.

Does anyone have any tips or ideas on how to fabricate the spacer?

Thanks everyone!

[N111YX]

Mike, here you can see how I did the spacer. I took some left over 1/8 inch windshield material and used that as the spacer on the round wood piece. It does not matter what kind of material you use. You are merely trying to "standoff" the area from the prop to the cowling. Also notice that I countersunk the material for screws. I wanted to save this piece for future builders but I dropped it and broke it... :lol:

If you really want to make a good fit, consider the engine "sag" that develops from the rubber mounts after a few months... :o

[MichaelFarley56]

Thanks Kip...that looks good!

I've also noticed that you countersunk your cowling rivets for a smooth cowling. Great idea...any other good hints you're willing to share?

[N111YX]

Oh, man. I should have kept notes and written a book...:)

Really, there are not many things. My specialty is gear leg drilling (I did it 3 times)!
I would not recommend doing it per the plans. I'll start a thread on that.

Some things I just paid a bit more attention to detail, like flush riveting in places there a smooth surface may look good, I did fill in my flush wing leading edge rivets with fiberglass filler for a smooth look. Little stuff like that.

If you are ever in doubt about things not really clear in the plans (such as component placement on the firewall) just ask and we'll see what I came up with.

Other than the tailwheel dragging because of low clearance I have had 200+ hours of trouble-free operation. I'm about to address the tailwheel problem and I'll get back with everyone on that...

[MichaelFarley56]

Sorry Kip...I meant with the cowling when I asked for hints. :mrgreen: Don't get me wrong though, I'll gladly take any hints you have! I'm glad that all is going well with your plane. I hope I can fly mine as much as you're flying yours! Are you going to the Tennessee fly in the first week in October? I'm hoping to make it down Saturday in the Express...hopefuly see you there!

[N111YX]

Yes, Mike. I plan to go to Crossville...see you there.