October - November 2008

Once the shapes were made, they were cut out and used as patterns for the ribs.

Total hours in drawing right fuselage patterns
to 85% scale, approximately 130 hours.


February 2009

These are the 1/8" Masonite fuselage ribs before mounting. (12" between each rib)

March - April 2009

These are the ribs temporarily mounted on TJI
for sizing. The tallest rib is # 13 (top of canopy)
and the cut off ribs are under the canopy.

Ribs mounted and rigged for alignment on TJI.

June - July 2009

Engine cowl mounted on TJI. Total length 33' 2."

This is a view from the left rear with the engine cowl in place.
The basic design at 85% is still about a foot longer than a
stock P-51 D.

*Total hours thus far - 290 hours