Instrument Panel Access
As I got closer to riveting the top fuse skin on, forever closing ready access to everything behind the panel, I decided to put in some access panels. The openings cut in the skin are 7 x 5".
The reinforcing flange is made from .040. It's 8.5 x 6.5". Bending it to fit the curvature of the fuse skin is best done before cutting it to size.
The first side is complete. This will really help with access to the avionics and bucking the rivets on this skin too.
Eventually I'll have to work a nice uniform gap around the panel for paint. Right now it's really tight - from 0 to .015". I'll also need to seal it from the weather. I think some car wax will work well for that.
The SS Torx head screws look good.
Nice idea and the workmanship looks fine. I will probably do this only on the left and use access panel in back of front baggage on the right side. Did the riveting go easily? Thanks. Bill
These access panels made all the difference when it came to rivetting the top skin on. Highly recommended!! -Larry.