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cutting bolts and removing the old MU hoses. The pilot will be repaired and restored back to it's early 50's appearance. Phil Copple, Don McPherson, Jon Vlasak and Al Fowler worked on this. -Dan and Don replaced the upper side panels. New metal was welded in and other repairs made. |
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Pilot removed from 918. |
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The dent that will likely be a challenge to repair. |
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Back view of pilot. |
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The is where the centering mechanism for the coupler sat. Looks like a crack has formed where the right side of the coupler centering mechanism was. |
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WP made a number of modifications to the pilot during the 60's, including adding MU hoses and rings to hang them on. These were removed. We are working on finding a place to stow away the hoses since they will rarely be needed. |
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Restored upper panels in place. The middle panels are now being removed for repairs. |
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One of the middle side panels after repair work and paint stripping. Ready for paint... |
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After the pilot was removed, the coupler followed. |
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"Plymetal" work
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L to R:
-Don bends the sheet metal to form the lip that will
hold the treated plywood in place.
-The inside of the sheet metal gets plenty of adhesive
to keep it from separating from the wood.
-The "plymetal" sandwich is pressed together - later
held down with several weights.
-The edges are clamped in place while Don solders
them together.
Above 4 photos by Dan Furtado (on Jon's digital camera)
