Fabricating a fuselage jig

[redheadcubpilot]

Through a set of less than desirable circumstances I will be in the market for a new fuselage for my -18 and maybe figured out a silver lining to the entire ordeal. While purchasing a new fuselage for my airplane I would have the opportunity to fabricate a fuselage jig for future repair projects. Anyone who has fabricated a jig from a known good fuselage have any tips or tricks to be shared? I have searched the forum but only found a few photos and looking for some more photo inspiration. Appreciate the help!

 

[wireweinie]

Make it heavier/stiffer than it has any right to be. Eliminate any connections that may flex or have any possibility of moving. Check the position of all fuselage attach points in the jig against the fuselage you are using for setup AND against the fuselage drawing. It's not rocket science but it needs to be as close to perfect as possible in order to be a good jig.

If it were mine, I'd use a lower beam as a level point and put some type of adjuster on the feet of the jig. That way, the jig can be leveled on most any floor and allow better measurements on future builds.

Web

 

[DENNY]

Make the attachment points removable and the jig a bit oversize it will fit 18, 12, 18 wide body, 4 place. Just add in proper attachments. DENNY

 

[rowcropper]

send me a private message and I can tell you how I built my jig. It is for a J3, 18 , and pa12, build or repaired several airplanes in it and they all flew good