So, I'm finally getting started on my airplane I bought while I was deployed. I conned a friend to help me by giving him the completed frame of my Super Koala (his father is one of those who wanted a low and slow aircraft). Tomorrow we are going to break ground on some of the projects I have before I start putting everything together.
I am going to be cutting a thin line in the wing so I can lay electrical cable to the position lights and strobes at the tips of the wings. The person I bought the aircraft from didn't run any electrical through the wings, so I'm thinking of using a dermal to cut a narrow deep line so I can lay the cord without having to dig through the spar and what not. Then I plan on filling in the hole with foam and re-applying fiberglass. It was suggested that instead of placing it on the leading edge, that I place the cut under the wing. So, my question is which is a better idea, the leading edge, where it will then be re-sealed/fiber-glassed or under the wing? While on the subject of the wings, anyone have experience with STOLSPEED Vortex Generators for the wings that they'd be willing to share their performance experiences? Also, I'm adding a smaller LED beacon to the top of the airframe, and where it's going to sit is just a thin piece of fiberglass (about 2-3 feet behind where the turtle-deck would be. Generally speaking, should I reinforce that area before I install it, or leave it alone? Third question, anyone have experience with designing electrical systems, and installing cabin heaters using a shroud around the exhaust pipes? Next, on the wing stubs, I will essentially need to cut out the top fiberglass on both sides in order to re-enforce the areas where I'll be walking on the wings so I can get in and out. What is the best way of doing this? Adding wood or extra layers of fiberglass? Lastly, anyone have suggestions on how to make the panel? I'm thinking fiberglass or aluminum. I am getting rid of the old panel in hopes I can simplify the layout so it's more user friendly. Thank you very much for your help in advance. Trevor Norman
