Gear Jig

The landing gear is constructed on the airplane while it is positioned upside down. For practicality it is easier to build the gear before the cabane assembly. The fuselage jig was modified to form an adjustable box section. A tube of the right size to fit inside the axles was procured. The axles were slid over the tube until the proper spacing was achieved. Then this tube was place in the jig. Using a plumb bob and accurate level, the jig and axle tube was manipulated until the axle was located in the postition indicated on the plans. Previously, the gear fittings had been located on the fuselage with the help of an alignment rod--7/16 inch rod with one end turned down to 3/8 inch to fit the gear bushings. The gear leg bushings were fabricated according to plans dimensions and put into the fuselage fittings. Then it's a simple matter to fit all the gear leg tubes to the axle. Straight axles are practically gauranteed. The cross tube for the bungees is left one piece to further ensure alignment. Once the gear is welded the 2 halves can be cut apart.