Making progress with the structural reinforcement of the lower hull. As pointed out by Alpha the removal of the battery box did make the hull move flexible and reinforcement was needed. I also intend to weight the tank to between 20 and 25 lbs overall so the reinforcement needs to be significant. I believe what I have done once finished will replace that lost with the removal of the battery box and add too it.
The bulkheads are shaped from .040" sheet, 6061T6 aluminum and the angles are cut from stock 1/2 x 1/2" x 1/16" aluminum angle purchased at the local home improvement store. They are secured or will be with 4x40 screws and nuts. I will likely added a strip of 1/2" x .060" thick styrene between the angle and the hull side to act both as a doubler. It will also give me the thickness needed to counter sink the hull outside wall without creating a "knife edge" or pulling through the hull and eliminate the risk of it cracking when being flexed.
I am also considering adding the same 1/2" angle along the length of the inner upper edge of the hull side or at minimum between the bulkheads.
I have cut and temporarily position the lowest layer of lead sheet. This will be secured in place with glue and the same fasteners that will hold the main section of the Belly Armor. Once glued and secured in place it too will stiffen the hull.
Thanks for looking in,
Barry
