The next step is to match-drill the J-channels to the fuselage. But before that, the F-779/711/712 assembly must be clecoed in place, and that was a little challenging trying to maneuver the J-channels into place and get bulkhead holes lined up with the skin. As of now, the fit is close enough to get clecoes in all the holes. I can live with that, even if the fit isn’t 100 percent perfect.

The last step before match-drilling the J-channels is to make sure there’s no twist in the structure. I cut some shims out of oak and taped them in place on the sawhorses; I also taped the sawhorses themselves in place on the floor to prevent shifting. With the shims in place, I was able to get the whole assembly level…very cool

Forward measurement…

…and aft measurement.

While continuing to check the fuselage for twist, Ellen and I drilled the J-channels to the fuselage. I needed a spare pair of hands to keep the J-channel in place, and Ellen helped. Fortunately I didn’t drill any holes in her fingers.

I still have a little more work to do before drilling the J-channels to the F-775 skin, I’m going to have to work slowly to take out some remaining bend from the F-775.