2007 AT-11 August update
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These are the pictures taken of our progress since the last update in April 2007.
Note that the weld had only made contact with the tube in one spot
This piece just fell off
A friend of a Wing member donated 10 MK38A-2 practice bombs
The center fuselage section starts to look very empty
The cockpit was stripped back down to provide better access to the under floor tubing
The first crack repair is done. We are finally going the other way.
Lots of time was spent in this position to remove the plumbing
Are we too old for this?
Yes we do know how it goes back together … I hope!
Lots of cracks must be repaired
Cleaning is underway
Lots of grunge was hidden everywhere
New sheet metal working tools are being purchased
The new equipment will be used for the many required repairs
Now we just need to get them off the hangar floor
Now we are sure we will the spar properly protected
LOTS of rivets came out to get to this stage
Naked as a babies behind!
Cleaning the spar is made easier with everything removed
But its still grunt work
There is no easy or quick way to get it done
Our father and son welding team prepping the weld area
The bad welds reworked and ready for new TIG welds
This time our FAA approved welder will get it right
It was interesting to find the original factory layout marks
We found damaged stringers under the skin – likely due to heavy handed refuelers
The wings wait patiently for their turn