duncan_rtfm

During SEQ's lockdown I've been champing at the bit, because I have been waiting for a wood delivery to carry on work on the Fleabike.  So, with nothing else to do, I have designed a new plane - this time a fully enclosed single seater.

 

I've decided to build it with the cedar strip canoe method.  I have watched a huge number of Youtube videos of people building strip canoes, and it all looks reasonably straightforward.  However, all the online builders are working from plans, and don't have to make any design decisions. 

My first design decision is how far to extend the front "keel".  It has to accommodate a 225mm diameter ring (to allow air into the engine compartment, and to provide for the prop shaft).  I don't actually know how to build this.

 

This is what I've come up with so far...

 

I'll build the fuselage in three sections.  The green section is a fairly straightforward "canoe".  The yellow section is a single piece cowl/engine covering.  And the orange section (as you can see) comprises the roof and the turtledeck

 

Do I run a keel along the entire length of the green section?  And the yellow?  Or do I do this for all three sections?

 

Are there any canoe builders on this forum who might be able to help with this?

Regards,

Duncan