Turtle deck to observer conversion

[Bigdog]

The L-2A project I picked up is currently configured with a turtle deck. I want to convert it back to an observer model both because I like it that way and that's what it was originally. So.... I need to figure out what needs to change on the fuselage. I found a drawing showing 2 supports for the bubble that need to be added off the upper longerons. What I can't get a grip on are the differences from the front window/door aft. The oval window frame needs to get replaced by some kind of frame/mounting for the side windows and the overhead is probably different. I've taken pictures of various L-2/DCO's I've encountered but the covering hides the details. Does anyone have pictures of a observer fuselage without the covering? Or anything that details the differences? That would be really helpful and let me find the drawings of the piece parts I need to frame up the glass. Any other help/insight would be appreciated.

[Dick Huish]

Re: Turtle deck to observer conversion

Greg check your PMs

[Blue Streak]

Re: Turtle deck to observer conversion

I have a question similar to the one that started this thread.

I recently purchased an L-2B project with all the log books and data plates. It had been converted to a "fastback" version. I would like to return it to an L-2B with observation windows.

The drawings and structural repair manual are helpful but any experience, insight or help would really be appreciated.

George Wacker
Los Angeles
1943 L-2B
N47724, #4814
Now flying 1945 BC12D
N39928, #6581

[M Towsley]

Re: Turtle deck to observer conversion

My old B-model ended up in Minot, ND if you are ever that way.

[warbugdriver]

Re: Turtle deck to observer conversion

My L-2M was a post-war fastback conversion in the late 1940s. I'm not sure how they did it but when mine was rebuilt in the late 1990s, they didn't have to do anything to convert it back to an observer. No structural changes had been made to the fuselage so I suspect they simply added wooden stringers to the existing frame to make it a fastback. It was an observer when I purchased the plane in 2003 and the build photos show no signs of any added framing.