August 12, 2022

The engine, a Lycoming Thunderbolt YIO-390-EXP340, was finally delivered a year after ordering. Installation on the motor mount was 2 days later after installing components and fittings on the rear of the engine.

August 21, 2022

The next step in the process is fitting the cowl. This was done prior to attaching anything else to the engine to provide the greatest amount of room to fit the standard attachment hinges (versus numerous quarter-turn fasteners as some have done).

September 20, 2022

Now it was time to install engine baffling. These can be checked after installation, for close fit up to the cowl— very important for engine cooling. Part of this process involves prep and install of the induction system snorkel to provide air to the fuel servo.

October 9, 2022

Next, all fuel and oil hoses, oil cooler, control cables, exhaust and firewall forward wiring can be installed to finish the engine installation.

October 22, 2022

The prop spinner is now fitted to the Hartzell prop. After trimming, the spinner was sent to Houston Chrome for a gold spectra-chrome finish. This concludes all build activity at the shop—time to move the aircraft to the hangar!

November 8, 2022

After much deliberation on a trailer to move the fuselage, I concluded the easiest and best approach was to use a rollback tow truck. BoDeans towing in Durango was called. The driver had previous experience moving an airplane and the move went flawlessly.

November 19, 2022

Time to install the prop, tail surfaces, wings and control surfaces , control rods.

December 3, 2022

With the aircraft structurally complete and all systems installed, system tests can be started, that include Weight and Balance, fuel flow tests and electronic system  calibration.

December 24, 2022

With all systems testing complete, will the engine start?  SUCCESS!  All systems working!   Now we wait for a visit from the Designated Airworthiness Representative and expect buyoff and FAA permission to fly the aircraft.