by dirkverdonck » Fri Nov 08, 2019 1:29 pm
Hi Wes,
I installed nutplates in the main cross tie box before closing it up and also a row on the top of the first cross member. I then measured and cut the forward and rear sheets, adding a lip to the top and bottom facing opposite directions; the top lip to the outside of the box so the box 'hangs' on the lips and is secured in place with the nutplates, the bottom lip will hold the plywood bottom plate. On the vertical side, I folded lips to the inside of the box and added nutplates to the back of them to hold the sideplates.
I then measured the size of the sideplates and added a large lip on top folded to the outside to close the gap between the sidewall and the box and lips on the bottom side facing inwards to hold the bottom plywood sheet.
Once all for side are installed, you will have four bottom lips surrounding the box that will hold your plywood sheet in which I drilled a hole and inserted a piece of rope with a nut underneath to pull the sheet upward for inspection purposes.
As my box is already installed and I have no more pics available, this is the only information I can add.
Make sure you measure at least four times before you cut any metal as the box is not square but has a conical shape!
Dirk Verdonck
Leffinge, Belgium
Onex #117
Taildragger, Aerovee 2.1, MGL iEFIS, TRIG radio and Transponder, electric flaps, external elevator trim, shortened wingtips, hydraulic brakes, hightened seat pan, extra inspection panels, etc