Going off extensive notes to lay out the exact lines as was originally from the factory.

This was what I found underneath the "N"numbers on the side of the fuselage. This would have been from the factory, but the numbers were not.

To get the curve radius correct, I made paper templates to follow. It was challenging due to the contour of the cowling. Some innovative engineering later, if you call it that, I got it figured out. 

Meticulous measuring. Slowly going cross eyed!

All bagged and ready to paint her!

Paint measuring station. With a perfect match to the original color, it made it easy to mix.

Primed.

Here I am starting to really get excited. Color is awesome!

Let's unmask and see what we have!

Better than Christmas for me!

These are the new cowl doors I overhauled 'almost ' completely. Talk about a perfect fit. If there is enough interest, (email me your information to dbarron195@gmail.com    ....... NO SPAM....), I may go into the business of fixing doors. I am all tooled up now. 

                                       This is original paint lines that were on this plane straight from Cessna. And ooh yes, I am putting the flaws back to how this specific plane was exactly out of the factory! The painter here at our shop just cringed when I told him I was putting the flaws back in on purpose!!

                                          The "N" numbers that were painted on the side covered up the original bullet down the side of the fuselage. When I stripped the paint off, I had a nice little present underneath, original paint lines!

This is proof that the venturi's were painted separately from the aircraft. The paint underneath the venturi that is. Also gave me another good sample of color that would not have been affected by mother nature. Lots of originality surprises coming from this old gal!

Gear legs taken completely out and repainted. Completely overhauled the brakes and all new components. Had to alter some backing plates so they would fit nicely with my wheel pants. New, tires, tubes, wheels, and hardware. Brand new!!

Hi all, I am sorry for the delay of pictures. I am grinding along on is bird. Really been pushing so I might have it done for the HUGE airshow in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Looks like I will make it as I am standing, but have had no time to update on my progress. As soon as I find time, I will get all caught up! Sorry for the time delay!

Tailwheel assembly completely overhauled. Looking brand new from 1953!

Gearlegs and cabin entry steps removed ready for paint

Sides Skins back on