Hatz Biplane Association

Hi All
Received my steel order (well most of it) and ready to begin welding fuselage. My plan is to make the two sides (using same jig) flat, and then bend to join at tail post, etc. Anyone have an input? Is there a better way? Any "horror stories" to share before I start cutting and fitting a bunch of expensive tube?
I consider myself an experienced builder but always appreciate input from others, especially those that have "gone before".
Dave

Hey Dave,
You can take a look at my project at
http://websites.expercraft.com/davidhines/
if your an experienced builder it may seem elementary, but I've documented how I constructed my fuselage. No endorsement to follow the same, but it worked for me. Click on "project" to get detailed pics. What worked for me was to notch and fit the longest cross tubes first, that way if I messed one up I could just use that cut piece on the next longest tube. I had little waste this way. Congrats, good luck, and have fun. Which Hatz are you building?

Hi Dave

Great web site and pics. It is obvious you know what you are doing. Looks very much like my project except I am welding the complete joint while the side is in the jig. Have had trouble in the past getting my head inside a fuselage to finish welds so want to do as much "flat" as possible.

I am an OK welder but expect to be a lot better when the project is done. Have built several aircraft but this is first with a welded steel fuselage.

Am building the "Classic" and like you, feel it needs a round engine. Am considering a Rotek (not sure it is spelled right) but would consider an old "original" if one became available. Think I have a couple of years to decide, but retired last year so the project may go quicker than I think. Started the first fuselage side Sunday and hope to have it completed tomorrow. Weather has been cold and rainy so too nasty to fly VP-1 or Pietenpol. Might as well spend time in workshop. I am located in the UP of Michigan (near Marquette) so get a lot of days more suited to inside work.

Thanks for the input and please keep posting the photos. Always a pleasure to see good workmanship.

Dave

Well I appreciate the compliment, and am especially happy to hear a builder say it looks like I know what I'm doing. This is my first airplane, and just learned to weld for this project. I did learn from a certified aircraft welder and pilot/builder. That has given me confidence, he even says he would fly in my plane! I practiced welding for months, and like you said, by the end, you are much better. I studied this forum and others for several years too. I have enjoyed the process greatly, and actually enjoy welding now. Its been easier than I anticipated, but am very much appreciative of the advice of others on this forum. I am also lucky to live 2hrs from the Hatz Assn president Kevin Conner who is a little further along on his fuselage. I've visited his project several times, and its immensely helpful to actually see how someone else has done things.