Pre-Cover punch list

[PropMan]

Being that the construction of all models are similar, figured I'd ask in general.

Has anyone created a Punch list for things to be done before Fabric goes on the fuselage?

Asking for a friend. Lol

[Utah-Jay]

I am interested in this too. I am finalizing things prior to covering as well

[jaredyates]

"The map" is great for this. There is a box for "Cover Fuselage" on the lower branch near the middle. Everything to the left of that are things that you'd want to have done before covering.
Here is a link:

https://www.mindmeister.com/917081852?t=RSYClGATP3

[Bcone1381]

In addition to what Jared wrote, Stewarts Systems has a two video series where they cover a Piper Vagabond fuselage. In the beginning at 2min 30 sec the presenter takes a few minutes to tell the viewer a proper and prudent overview sequence of tasks for fuselage covering. In the video they do a fabric interior like Bob does. I followed this sequence, and it worked out real well. I did not feel like I was a first timer with out any guidance, and I build alone at my home. Go to the link below and scroll down to "Piper Fuselage Covering".

https://stewartsystems.aero/videos/

[coosbo]

A few things I didn't notice left of the "Cover Fuselage" box but one might consider before covering. ELT, static ports, bolts for lower outside seat belt attachment, permanently attach formers, floorboards, and if you're installing your boot cowl with nutplates, there might be one or two spots that it's easier to do that before covering.

[jaredyates]

Thank you Colby, I have added some new nodes and move the floorboard node into the pre-covering branch.

[schu]

I think many people cover too early as there are lots of benefits to covering later such as less chance of hangar rash and much easier to get to stuff. I'm basically building the entire airplane firewall back, then covering as I won't have to worry about some wire I forgot to run or scratching stuff up when fit the doors. Thus, here is my pre covering list:

Fit the stabs, elevators, rudder and work through any clearance or binding issues.
Fit the flying wires and lift struts.
Build the elevator counter balance.
Fit the tailwheel.
Build any additional access panels or things you want in the tail section.
Install the pitot static system. Many builders have had issues with static on boot cowl, mine is behind the rear bulkhead.
Built the ELT mount and work through its wiring.
Assemble the stick assembly, pedal assembly.
Assemble gear and brakes.
Rig the rudder and elevator cables.
Fit the floor boards.
Install firewall.
Build the boot cowl.
Plumb the fuel lines.
Install electrical system relays, wires, battery if inside (recommended if lithium).
Install all avionics.
Install AP servos if you have those.
Install headset jacks.
Install any interior lighting.
Fabricate and fit door sills.
Fabricate and fit doors.
Fabricate and fit skylight.
Install seats.
Work through seatbelts.

At this point I'll have everything behind the firewall done except paint/fabric, so, I'll remove the avionics from their trays, remove elt, remove the seats and doors, remove the flooring, remove the gear then put it into a beefy rotisserie and bag and tape everything I don't want to paint.

The airplane will of course weigh a lot more, but I'll have worked through all of the issues before fabric. Once I reinstall the stuff I removed, fuse shy of firewall forward will be done. I'lll wrap the fabric in moving blankets to keep it nice, and proceed to mounting my engine.

My $.02 American, which will only be worth $.01 by the time you read it.

[Bcone1381]

I like how Schu thinks.

I was not a peace covering until I had married the wing's fuel line with the fuselage's fuel line including sight gages. I could not visualize measure or jig anything up that gave me peace. So I installed my wings to my fuselage.....for the second time.

At this point, its all set to fabricate the aileron cables, and the flap mechanism, windshield, fresh air, and wing root fairing, windows, doors, wings, struts. That would give me assurance that everything fits.....before I cover. The sight gage might also drive me to figure out how I will finish off the interior wing root. I'm Not real happy with mine right now.

All that stuff has to be done. Fabric work is a really enjoyable part, make it like ice cream after dinner.

If you can get a rotissory sooner, do it. Quicker, more enjoyable building!! No comparison.

[PropMan]

Thanks All for the replies.
schu, I have most of those tasks done. Guess I'll finish up what's not then cover.