The first step now that I had my kit stowed in the garage was to review the plans. My dad aided me as I checked off plans sheets that had already been accomplished. But when I flipped to W-23 and examined it, I saw that it had not been fully completed. Dad chimed in that the sheet was on making your own Pitot/static tube and that the kit probably came with a premade one from Aircraft Spruce. After a moment's contemplation, I asked if there were any foreseeable disadvantages to a handmade pitot tube. Because there weren't any disadvantages, and I needed to start somewhere, I decided to fabricate my pitot tube as my first part.
Upon reviewing the plans, there were many different things I needed to learn how to do. I sort of knew how to read the plans. I had no idea how to turn a sheet of aluminum into a cut and drilled part! That's where my dad stepped in. First I learned how to transfer a shape from the plans to aluminum. By measuring the edges, and forming radius's on the corners. I was able to accurately create a copy of my intended part (W-23-05) out of .035
Unfortunately the plans called for .063 rather than .032.
so I had to remake the base plate. But, I was able to use the last one to make a support angle piece.
Once I had all of my sheet metal cut it was time to learn how to accurately drill.
Dad taught me to extend my lines past the edge of the part (on the plans version). Then I could use a straightedge and a sharpie to make alignment lines on the part. At each intersection of lines, I then carefully aligned the center punch and... CLICK!
Ready to drill.
The next hurdle was bending the tubes. Dad warned me about the possibility of crushing the tube. I certainly didn't want that! In order to bend the tube without damaging it, I put a tube bending tool in the bench vise. I marked my bend location and pulled with all my might. Okay not all of it, I didn't want to crush the tube after all! Once I had my the first bend done and measured, I took it to that bandsaw and cut it. The bandsaw left a rough edge on the tubing so I had to use the belt sander to square the edge. and then the scotch brite wheel.
Now I had all of my Parts gathered, my hardware collected, my tools at the ready. I reflecting back upon the process, I think I spent more time scouring my hardware box for the right nut than cutting drilling or sanding combined!
It fits! This part has fanned the fires of my enthusiasm for completing my project. I am extremely appreciative of everyone who has helped me begin to achieve my vision.
Mr John
Paul Shadwick
Stan Whitfield
Ron Sipple
Ralph and Joyce Shultz
Paul and Beth Duff
Paul Hockin
Nicholette Shultz
Gordon Fern
Anon Anon
Jeannette Shultz
Mike David
Jonathan and Julia Wolfe
Jon Palmstrom
Laurie Burns
Donna Mickel
Dana Baker
Mrs Nadine
Eric Johnson
Tammy Reap Hayes
Jeff Shultz
Brandon Lenart
WP Maesh
Michael Couillard
Mr Anonymous
Joe And Judy Green
Mrs Brenda
Mrs Cathy
Paul and Vickie Laberge
Judy and Roger Kemmerle