shell replacement without a floor template

[FlyingCloud3]

I've got the shell off of my 1950 Flying Cloud #7002. The floor it was lifted off was almost entirely rotten. I do have a decent piece that was the rear curve. But I'm pretty much going to be starting from scratch to determine most of the footprint of the new sub-floor.

I can see that there is some potential flexibility as far as exactly where the edge of the floor/c-channel could wind up being. I suppose to some degree it doesn't matter exactly where it lands as long as it is all fairly square and level and the width is about right. I recall the width was not consistent front to back originally.

My plan is to set the shell on the new floor and trace/draw what looks like a symetrical and square shape for the floor/c-channel. I'll cut the shape out then I'll set the shell back on and see how it fits.

I'm sure some of you have some tips for me. I'd like to nail it in one shot if possible. I'd rather not have to set the shell down more than twice if I can help it.

Thanks!

[J. Morgan]

IMHO, the only way you are going to get it truly right is with trial assembly.

All in all placing, marking, cutting, repeat.... Etc.. Isn't going to add a lot of time and effort to the project as a whole.

Resign yourself to doing this several times, and if you only have to do it once or twice it will feel like a big win...


Brevi tempore!

[J. Morgan]

Oh, By the way, if your front c channel is off and true to shape, it will make a nice template for your front cut, you have the back, and the sides are straight. This will give you most of what you need.


Brevi tempore!

[FlyingCloud3]

good point J.
I agree that's the right attitude!

the c-channel is all just bits and pieces...not much to go on there.

[Chatooga11]

I made a template of the floor curves out of cardboard. I made sure it fit correctly under the C channel. Then I traced it and made the floor with 3/4 inch plywood. Fits perfectly.

[65CV]

Frank Yensen does a great blog on restoration topics. It might be a little late to refer you to this post, but hopefully it has some tips that may help.

I learned a lot about scribing and making panels from him.