CHAPTER 21 - Adding a Landing Light

After the tank was closed, my next step was to complete the outboard leading edge and do the internal works of the wing before adding the main skins. Before I could complete the leading edge, I needed to do the landing light installation. I had decided on the Duckworks landing light kit for my project.

Installation was straightforward following the provided instructions. The picture shows the 'handle' made of duct tape which is used to pull the lens tight while drilling it to the skin. I covered the entire lens with masking tape to prevent scratches, which is why it appears white.

The only difficulty I encountered was installing the lens with the light mount in place. With the lens 1" larger than the cutout hole in all directions, as per the plans, it was impossible to insert it through the cutout. I didn't want to trim the lens anymore than necessary (I can always do that later), so I installed the lens temporarily and then installed the light mount. With the light mount in place, the lens can be dropped down and behind it (there is space between the mount and skin) so that the light can be installed and/or adjusted. Installing that lens from the front won't be a picnic, though.

After this was done, I had the parts primed, and then riveted the leading edge together. Once the leading edge was done, I cut a 5" by 5" square of aluminum foil and used spray adhesive to attach it to the inside top of the leading edge behind the light cutout. While DW's instructions say to mask this area off so that the bare aluminum can act as a reflector, my method allows the skin to be primed completely and without hassle. If the aluminum foil ever corrodes, I'll replace it. I think I can stand the cost and extra weight. The finished leading edge was clecoed back to the spar while the tank attachment and miscellaneous work is completed.

With this complete, the next project is electrical and pitot plumbing.