Cockpit coaming padding

[mmcgrew]

What material is a good choice for the cockpit coaming padding?
Michael
N838MM

[mtaylor]

Foam pipe insulation. The smallest size I've found still needs something else inside it to make it fit the 3/8ths tubing around the coaming. I found some rubber hose that has a 3/8ths I.D, 5/8ths O.D. Haven't put mine together yet, but I've done a preliminary fit and it looks good with leatherette wrapped around and bound with leather twine. That's one of those jobs a builder looks forward to...the airplane is complete and just needs those cosmetic touches.

Mark T

[mmcgrew]

Thanks Mark

I am not looking forward to the coaming. I am a good metal working - but not so good on this type of detail. I like the idea of back filling the insulation. The gap thing has bothered me. I also bought a hide of leather on the internet. Very high quality but I think too stiff for coaming - would make great seat material (if some one needs). I will try to buy again??? Always have to do things twice - three times and even 4.

Michael
N838MM

[mtaylor]

It was my first time at doing the coaming and It was not difficult at all. The most difficult part was deciding what shape I wanted the opening to be: Stearman (big hole) teardrop or Waco high and tight.I chose the larger Stearman type teardrop to make it easier to get in and out. You drape the sheet metal over the instrument panel and/ or bukhead and then trace out the shape you want. Cut it out staying well away from the outline you drew so you can later "work down" the shape to what you like. I used 3000 grade aluminum 3/8ths tubing that was very easy to bend to match the shape of the coaming around the edges, drilled and pop riveted it to the coaming every 3" or so. I beafed up the tubing where feet will be banging into the side of he coaming during ingress/degress or if someone were to stand on the coaming sides during refueling or wild sex. Did I say that?!

The coaming was one of those jobs that I approached with dread, only to find it was just another example of the joys of building an airplane. You'll do fine.

Mark T