Shannan, I used a 3/4" 4x8 sheet of plywood for my table and added some 2x4's for stiffeners. For the base I used Stanley folding sawhorses I purchased at Home Depot, here is an Amazon link. Fold the sawhorse to adjust the height. You don't want the table to high when working on the wings. The wings are 12' long, but can hang off the ends.
To build the fuselage, I ripped some 3/4" plywood into 3 1/2" strips and made laminated beams, 4 strips 3" thick, and used 4 jackstands to support the fuselage bottom. Using individual jackstands allows you to level the fuselage. I used a laser on a tripod for accuracy.
This is much easier than building tables, etc., and makes it easy to break down to give you space to build. A 4x12 table takes lots of space.
If I was going to do it over again I would build the tailfeathers, flaps and ailerons and then the fuselage and FWF, engine, install the panel etc. This takes the most time. By the time you get this all done you will be an expert and can build both wings in 4 weeks if properly motivated, then you're done and ready to attach.
I was thinking about my suggestion and making 12' laminated beams would be best. You could add a 4' piece of plywood to give you the 12' table for the wings. Use screws to attach the plywood to the beams. Make 4 - 4' x 3 1/2" laminated beams to use to build the wings, this gives you clearance for the clecos.
Jake Reyna
To build the fuselage, I ripped some 3/4" plywood into 3 1/2" strips and made laminated beams, 4 strips 3" thick, and used 4 jackstands to support the fuselage bottom. Using individual jackstands allows you to level the fuselage. I used a laser on a tripod for accuracy.
This is much easier than building tables, etc., and makes it easy to break down to give you space to build. A 4x12 table takes lots of space.
If I was going to do it over again I would build the tailfeathers, flaps and ailerons and then the fuselage and FWF, engine, install the panel etc. This takes the most time. By the time you get this all done you will be an expert and can build both wings in 4 weeks if properly motivated, then you're done and ready to attach.
jake
Sep 25, 2010
Jake Reyna
This is easy to do if you have a table saw.
Sep 25, 2010
Chris Aysen
Shannan - Sonex is a nice aircraft. I'm considering one when I build my low wing. But enjoying my 701 right now. Good Luck with your build!
Chris
Jan 20, 2011