Thorp Air Command - T18.net

Here’s a better shot of the whole panel area...taken today

That does help. I don't know why I didn't think of that. Thank you again. You guys sure do nice work. Especially that window trim Bill has. I could try making that for days and still have nothing to show for it.

My engine got delivered this am. By the afternoon I had the engine mount installed, the ignition leads routed and the exhaust system in place. Each day gets me closer now...

Cool

Last week I got the stab and vertical fin installed.

Yesterday I got the engine bolted in place. Now I can measure for the final 6 fluid hoses that need to be made. I’ll also locate and drill the holes for the throttle and mixture Cables.

Woot!

Nice steady progress ! I like that !

RB

This picture brings back a bad memory. I was hanging an IO-520 and trying to nudge the hoist sideways to get the engine in final position over the cradle and the hoist tipped, slamming the accessories into the firewall and the oil sump into the cradle. I got lucky. The only damage was to the sump and we had a spare sump on a shelf.

_________________
Thorp T18
O-320-B3B (160 HP)
68x74 Sterba Propeller

"The joke in aviation is, 'If you want to make a million, you'd better start with £10m.' " -Bruce Dickinson

This fiberglass stuff takes time. But here we are with the duct finished for the oil cooler. Additionally, I have the second pass with micro balloons done on the intake for the fuel injection servo.

My Naca intake is just about done. Perhaps one more pass with epoxy and micro balloons and I’ll be happy with it.

Had the engine back off today to measure for all the hoses I’ll need. Also had to reminded the electric fuel pump to get it further from the exhaust system. The throttle and mixture cables are now fun. I do have to fabricate a mount for the throttle cable. I previously made the mixture attach bracket. Final runs are now determined for the starter cable and main ground.

Also in the fiberglass work area has been extensions to the cowl cheek area. I was bugged that the cheek didn’t line up with the aft side of the landing gear fairing. While at it, the opening is choked down and inside the cowl is a reverse naca shape to take the low speed cowl air and help accelerate it to outside cowl air speed. Can’t wait to see what the results are shen she flies!

I know some/most like to fab their own parts , but I found some parts on the Van's site that worked on my engine installation . One that worked out perfect was the Van's throttle and mixture bracket that goes between the carb and the engine . P/N-149-360 PC Kit . They also have one for the 0-320 . Provides a secure mounting for the throttle and mixture cables . About $25.00 if I recall right . Even if you don't buy Goggle the bracket and you will see installation and pics of the bracket . Would be fairly easy to fab one if so desired . BING , BANG , BOOM !

RB

Here's what I decided on. Routing is effective and the mounts were quickly made. thanks for the Van's idea....But remember, I've got the Superior Cold Air Induction system for the fuel injection on this one.