Hour 20 - A Q-200 Gives Birth
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- Category: Quickheads BLOG
- Published: Wednesday, 24 December 2008 00:00
- Written by Dan Yager
- Hits: 2868
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In one of the last videos, I was trying to figure out how to make a canopy frame, and of course I managed to come up with the most complicated way possible. My original idea involved tracing the outline of the fuselage that surrounded the cockpit and repeatedly cutting out thin slices of this profile from two inch insulating foam. Then I would “glue” all of the profiles together using two part foam press that all into place, and then add additional two part foam to finish the shape.
Then I realized that I could just as simply buy a thinner piece of insulating foam, and press that into place instead. Then I would have a good starting barrier on which to pour the two part foam, I could then simply pour the foam and sand to final shape. (At least in theory.)
So I went over to Lowes and bought a ¾” sheet of insulating foam, cut it to a rough shape, and forced it into position over the cockpit. I was very pleased with the results. This was MUCH faster and easier than my original idea.
The only problem was that there were pretty large gaps between the fuselage lip and the foam in some areas which meant that someone (read ME) would need to climb back under the foam and prop it up so that it would conform to the compound curve of the fuselage. Arghh!
Of course, I never bothered to clean up all of the paint and micro dust from me sanding for the last few months, so before entering, I decided to put a dust mask on. Let it be noted, that I am VERY glad that I removed the control stick in the last video. After climbing in to the cockpit, I was unable to back out. I had to climb all the way in, turn around, and head back out face first!
Naturally, I didn’t realize what would be needed once I got in there, so I had to repeat the process twice. I definitely consider this one of my “Benny Hill” moments, so you’ll pardon if I repeat the music from my first post! I’m glad I’m still fairly scrawny!
Climbing in and out of the back of Q reminded me of a scene from Ace Ventura, and I thought it must look like it was giving birth to me or something. (Disgusting, I know, but that's how my mind works.) 
One word of caution however, I did manage to slice my hands up pretty well climbing in and out over those sharp fiberglass edges. I even got a good sized fiberglass shard embedded in my left hand. If you intend to embark on a journey like mine, you may want to consider wearing thick gloves, as well as the long sleeves and pants.
When I was all finished, I was very happy with the result. In my next post, I want to cover the area with Cling Wrap, build a few dams, and begin pouring the two part foam. Wish me luck, and stay tuned!
As always, I invite your comments below.