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Camel Update

Story added 17th November 2009 by Fred

The fuselage has now been moved through 90 degrees and a large jig constructed to hold the wings . This was completed in October and the lower wings attached to the lower stub centre section at 5 degrees dihedral.   A frame is being prepared to accommodate the centre section and  cabane struts.   Aluminium seats have been fitted into the sockets of the cabane struts.   The top wings have already been drilled to the centre section (the top wing is flat throughout).   Once the centre section struts have been cut to length and fitted in the fuselage sockets, the top wings and outer struts can be positioned  allowing  the opportunity to measure for the streamline external bracing wires of which there are many.   Lower wings are positioned,but have yet to be drilled.

The undercarriage is fitted , but still requires final welding of bungee bobbins adjacent to the axle.  We will also require to order streamline wires for the undercarriage.

Ammunition boxes, spent case and link chutes have been constructed and these are being installed.  It is possible that part of the Vicker's interrupter gear will be fitted.  The instrument panel is installed, the period type instruments have been serviced and will be positioned in due course.  Pipework for air, fuel and oil systems will be obtained shortly and these can then be installed.

An original Clerget 140hp (long stroke) rotary engine is being worked on by members of the Engineering Department at Old Warden and will be installed much later.   Preparatory work has included servicing a sets of bearings and acquisition of various components in order to bring this unit to airworthy standard.

ALL MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE

The museum where the Camel is being made is now closed but the Camel still remains there being worked on, due to the closure of the museum no visitors will be admitted, we are sorry for this inconvenience,

N A Workshops.