M2
JANUARY 2007
The M2 upper wings being hoisted into position. The hoist tools were fabricated
using
square steel tube, carpet covered wood platforms, and hand winches. The idea was
borrowed
from a similar system seen at a visit to John Desmond's restoration facility.
An additional platform suspended from the ceiling beams
enables moving of the hoist mechanism to the other side of the aircraft.
Mike inserts the wing bolts. This one went together very smoothly. The right
side was a bit more difficult.
The lower left wing in position. Once again the left side fit
very well. The right side was a bit tougher.
The right upper wing is lifted into position
Larry making the hoisting job look easy!
A view from the top right hand side
Sheet metal work continues on the M2. The first picture shows a portion of the
upper
cowl. It became necessary to reinforce this part when we realized the only way
to fuel
the aircraft would require that you could stand on this portion of the cowl. The
second
picture shows additional reinforcing of the fuselage where the cowl fits.
The forward baggage compartment doors and
preliminary windshield frame
Another shot of the windshield & turtle deck. You can also
see the leather straps that hold the baggage door closed.
Larry fits one of the hold down pins.
Another view of Larry working and preliminary
fitting of the strut fairing.
Larry & Kelly stand next to the upper right M2 wing. Also shown
are the center section, RH lower wing and the ailerons.
The beautiful Kelly Posey stands next to
the M2 wing. Kelly was responsible for
the covering of the wings. Now she has
a lot of rib stitching ahead.
Dave Rocchi has been working on the landing light fairings for the M2
The landing lights.
M2