Supporting the valves
I used plumbing valves found at a local hardware store. They
have no thread for mounting them on a bulkhead, so I made a support
with two aluminum brackets.
Underneath
The cut for the bracket is quite complex with holes on three sides accommodating
the valves and the reinforcing bends. The opening underneath
leaves just enough space for the wrench.
Boxing the assembly
The box attaches to the instrument sub-panel on the front
side. The rear side does not touch the spar. It has its
own rear bulkhead which is fixed to the bottom skin. The side
panels and instrument sub panel are also attached to the cabin floor
skin.
We can't see it on the picture, but the top cover was pre-cut for
a perfect cut line, before being bent.
The secret cut
Here is a close-up of the cut made with an Olfa knife.
Splitting the cover
The cover needs to be split to accommodate the valves, which do not
have removable knobs.
All in pieces
Notice all the holes to accommodate tubing, wiring and cabling and
allowing easy access for maintenance.
Inside the box
I installed nut plates holding the cover to the valve assembly and
to the side panel. The valve assembly is also attached to the
side panels by means of nut plates and SS screws.
And there it is, almost ready for riveting
Before riveting, I need to make openings for the fuel tubing on the
rear side. First, I just want to see what route the tubing
will follow.