Smith-Wide Body Piper Super Cub Project

I purchased a “kit” that had been started by the previous owner. Fortunately, not much had been done, so I could “do it my way” and I didn’t have to wonder about the quality of the work performed.

The fuselage and tail pieces were welded and powder coated. All systems, pulleys cables needed assembly. I patterned and fabricated the interior panels and covered them. Floor boards were fabricated, finished and installed.

The wings were partially assembled from the kit builder. There is a long story here, but suffice it to say they were not in the stage that usually leaves the kit builder. I needed to install the flap and aileron hangers, make the tank covers, install the trailing edge pieces (false spar) and all pulleys and brackets.

The instrument panel was a formed, blank piece of aluminum. After using patterns of instruments for the layout, the panel was cut with a water jet. This was a huge time saver over drilling and punching holes with Greeley punches, and the result was excellent. Preliminary wiring was done and harnesses were made for the avionics.

I overhauled the O360 Lycoming engine to zero time. The cylinders are port and polished to enhance fuel flow, otherwise the engine is stock. I wanted the option of burning auto fuel.

The aircraft was assembled and rigged, then disassembled for covering. ALL surfaces are now covered and everything but the fuselage is painted with primer. Waiting for the weather to improve to prime the fuselage. Then parts can be installed for the last time!! Using the Stewart System for covering allowed me to do much of the work in my house last winter. It is not toxic and has no odor; also I had a great wife!!

This is a brief description of a 3 year process. Not full time, but a fairly consistent effort.

When will it be done….90% done, 90% to go!