As some may know, Zane has been doing a ton of modifications to his PA-22 in my shop the last couple years. Last year was modifying the wings for Svenns wing tip extension. Float fittings got installed some time in between. And this time around Zane and some buddies modified the airframe for Trimmer sea plane doors. I am overseeing the project and making sure everything is up to standards.



Here we go, Zane and the old PA-22/20 airframe in the corner getting ready to strip down for door mods.



Fabric completely removed for access to the left side.



A quick look at the weld on float fitting. Zane's good friend and ex partner in the airplane is a welder by trade and can out weld me by a mile.



The pile of window frame cut out.



At this point we start cutting and fitting new tubing for the door frame.



This is Mike measuring for tube placement.



The Trimmer STC has you install a tube here to transfer loads down towards the lower longeron.



Welded in place



Weld quality is amazing.



Made a step for the left side out of an old Taylorcraft rear wing strut.



Lower tube in.



Upper square tube that forms the top of the door opening.



Door frame channels fabricated and welded on.



The step welded on.

At this point, both door openings are mostly complete with the exception of some trimming at the top. The doors themselves have not been made yet. That is done out of 5/8 square tube and will be done next time. Right now we are moving the airframe back into one of my storage hangers.

--Brian.

Nice project report. Thanks.

Looking good. Wish I were doing that to mine right now.

Looks like it'll be ready for floats and some MN flying by next month!!

Starting to think it’s a fool’s errand but the idea of having to direct my pax out onto the float so I can dock started to seem silly.

This airplane cost me so ridiculously little initially that in the end I won’t have spent much, aside from precious time.

Yes, time is precious! The memories you'll have with those girls in that plane will be precious too!

That really looks good Zane!