Poly-Fiber Couture

Let the nip & tuck begin. Tom stands ready to fill our workspace with toxic glue fumes as the Poly-Fiber is secured. It was a painstaking task for Tom as he secured the sleeve with clothespins, trimmed excess fabric, then glued the fitted and aligned covering to the frame. Nick worked alongside, enduring Tom's jokes about Aviation Inspectors ("AIs").

AI wisdom...or a discussion regarding lunch?

Beautiful, isn't it?

Tom looks so happy and serene here...could be the glue fumes.

Photos and text by Kathleen Jacques.

Bit by Bit, What it Takes

Tell someone that you may have to rebuild the engine of your restoration project antique airplane, and they likely will nod their head in empathy and admiration. Bring up your travails covering the airplane's frame with fabric and dope, and you've instigated a heartfelt reminiscence of blind rib-stitching, Poly-Brush highs, (no-heat) heat guns, migrating Poly -Fiber seams, and needing just one more inspection ring.  If you want to burst that bubble of awe --- show them your workspace. emphasis on WORK!

Bit by bit, the job comes together and it's not just an abstract idea. An airplane takes shape.

And through it all, Nick and Tom are still smiling.

Photos and text by Kathleen Jacques.

1 Step Forward 2 Steps Back

Really, it's not the end of the world... Despite the fact that the brake assembly was installed then uninstalled 2 or 3 times...  Something was wrong with the brake assembly itself and it took a lot of angst to figure things out.  Never fear; a solution is on the way.  The brake assembly assembler has been contacted and a fix is forthcoming. Tom has rallied and all is well (for now).

...at least  the tail wheel finally cooperated...

"Never mind dang setbacks - this is fun" (Kate's translation - edited for posterity)

Don't worry. They'll be back.

Photos and text by Kathleen Jacques.