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Posted for "Tom Sullivan" <toms1@chartermi.net>:
Nicholas,
I did not use the factory wheel enclosure. That piece is heavy and does not
maximize the baggage area. You can make a much nicer, lighter, and more user
friendly one out of prepreg. I built one similar to what several other
respected builders had done (Joe Trepicone and Bob Pastusik). I used one
piece of prepreg for the vertical member, added a small 45 degree angle piece
near the top, and then made a flange for the separate top part. I attach the
top part baggage floor) with screws with nut plates installed on the flange,
allowing removal during annual or maintenance. It will be a lot easier to
service anything in the rear section standing in the wheel well than doing a
contortion through the baggage access door.
I cut holes in the top prepreg panel for the wheels to penetrate through,
leaving a minimum of 3/4" clearance on all sides. To develop the hump for the
tires coming into the baggage area (wanted as much baggage area as possible,
so kept the floor low) I installed 2 layers of 3/8" carpeting padding over the
tires at the openings. I felt that 3/4" was plenty of clearance with the gear
fully retracted. With clear tape over the padding, I installed multiple
layers of carbon (glass would have been fine too) over the padding and on to
the prepreg. I installed 8 layers, probably 4 or 6 would have been
sufficient. The final cover is somewhat "womanly" looking, but allows maximum
baggage area and is removable.
I have enclosed pictures, but not sure if they will come through. If you
don't get them, email me and I will send them directly to you.
Tom Sullivan
IVPT
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