7d. F-18 Nose Cone and Instrument Panel

Once the nose cone was bonded to the base and "X" frame, the perimeter seam was ground away to allow for two layers of 3" wide fiberglass to provide full carry through strength. Once these extra layers have cured, the F-18 nose cone becomes an integral part of the structure.  Much sanding and filling remains to obtain a perfect surface for painting.

Next the Instrument Panel is bonded in place.  To insure proper alignment three bolts were used to hold the panel in place.  These will be removed after curing and the little holes filled with Bondo. Now Bob Correll's F-18 Jet Bike front fairing is starting to look like a real F-18!