What to do now Frame Off Question

[bikeukeguy]

This is what I bought.. 1952 Silver a Streak Clipper. Due to the window issue I ended up with this.So the exterior skin is now done. However due to a seriously twisted frame at a wheel well and all ribs on the Street side no original rib or Floor C Channel exists.
I am getting a new ladder frame built but that is months away.
Question I have is inner skin. Install before or after I mate the Shell and new frame or after. My current plan is leave the bottom 6" of the inner skin open, exposing the bottom 6" of ribs for last minute alignment. I can and will be using an over lap flanged joint.
The previous tenants dealt me a hand that is making me build a frame and then make my shell fit. I have been fairly good a keeping as close to the front and rear end cap alignment during this rebuild so I feel good that I am at least really close. As the Floor CChannel to vertical rib fitment is vital all new ribs are 2"short. The Plan is to add that last 2" at the time the frame and shell for correct fit. That is what the open 6" on the inner skin is for.

[54fuselage]

Inner skins should go in last. Everything should be snug and in alignment before you install the inner skins, so you won't have to leave a six inch gap to rework things. They are structural to an extent but not significantly.

[Wabbiteer]

Once you drop the shell & C-channel onto the floor you'll be surprised how tightly it will bind when trying to walk segments into place.

There are alignment pins over the hitch A-frame that cog for the rest of the shells fitment, a certain stretch happens getting past the entrance door and wheel well cut-outs so beware too much tension when setting the back does not distort the entrance opening 'square' or leave the outer shell sheets 'slack' above the wheel wells so it will flex and flop around.

Mostly I'd say not to rush 'landing & pinning' the shell, walk away and come back with a fresh eye to inspect the details before committing to fastening anything. Don't ask me how I know.

[GuitarmanFL]

I'm thinking 6" may not be enough working room. IT might be for you, so your call. I pulled out all the inner skins and it didn't take long. Perhaps consider removing the entire bottom? May not apply for you if you've had exterior access due to removing outer panels...

Congrats - good luck!