Dan, In answer to your question about finishing my cowling mold, I used quick drying drywall mud, and applied it about 1/8 inch thick. I then sanded it to final shape, ending with about 400 grit paper. I applied three coats of varnish, letting them dry 24 hours between coats. (By the way, the varnish will soften the drywall, so it will be streaked if you use a bristle brush.) I found the foam brushes give a much better finish.
I applied three liberal coats of alcohol based mold release (bought it at Spruce), then plied up three plies of glass. I plied them at 60 degree. I split the top and bottom, then reattached it using aluminum piano hinge and flathead pop rivets. I put a 1/4 inch thick layer of Lastafoam on the inside, then one coat of KR glass. The bottom cowling is attached with piano hinges at the sides and bottom. The rear of the top cowling connects with six Dzus fasteners. Your final question was whether I see anything on landing. Usually, I'm so scared of landing hard that I usually have my eyes closed in the flare. Actually, I'm about a year from flying the KR-2. See you in Red Oak. Jim Vance va...@claflinwildcats.com