Bulkheads Finished And Test Fitted
I dimpled the flanges and nutplate holes on all 3 bulkheads then installed 22 nutplates by back riveting them. That whole process went smoothly. Using fluting pliers I fluted the flanges as needed to straighten them out so the rivet holes lined up better. Per plans I test fitted them in the aft fuselage to see if any more fluting was required. For the most part they all fit well. I'll tweak a couple flanges so they fit flush with the outer skins. I also purchased new F-14186 NACA vent brackets from Van's. I received my new (and expensive) SV-6 metal eyeball vents from Vans. They seem hi quality. The plans have you enlarge the 2.5" holes in the brackets to 2.6" to fit the older SV-5 plastic vents, which I did. That isn't needed for the SV-6 vents. So the openings are a bit large now. I could still use them, but a new pair is only $6 and I think it'll look cleaner that way.