Next, measure off an inch from the bottom of the body tube. This line will be where the bottom of the body wrap will go, and the fins mount on the exposed tube below it. Then, either use the doorframe method or your handy-dandy tube marking angle to put a straight line down the length of the tube. This is the wrap seam line. Once you've done this, carefully cut out the wrap (cut on the line, it fits good) using a straightedge and then apply glue as per the instructions-- I had my doubts but it works. Put 1/2 wide 'smear' of white glue all the way around the edge of the wrap and across the red 'seperation line' between where the upper and lower stages seperate to keep the edge tight to the tube when you cut the tube apart later on. Line it up carefully along the tube length line and on a clean surface (don't want glue mess or dust/crud to discolor the wrap) roll it onto the tube, and work the seam edge down by rolling a sharpie along it, kind of burnishing it down. If you did a good job you'll hardly be able to see the seam! I also use this seam line to locate the bottom fin and launch lugs.

Install the motor mount as instructed. Be sure to leave half the second (middle) engine mount ring protruding from the body tube as the instructions indicate-- you want to be able to use the cool booster stage Dr. Zooch is developing for this rocket and turn it into a two stager later on, right?!? This is the 'stage coupler' for that lower stage. Anyway, be sure to turn the motor hook to align with the body wrap seam-- makes the rocket look cooler

Next, carefullycut along the red line on the tube wrap. You'll have to make 3-4 passes with your hobby knife, so go slowly don't rush, slip, cut yourself, or goof up the tube/wrap, and don't try to slice through all at once. Once the blade breaks through on the third or fourth pass, you can insert the blade and gingerly finish the cuts as you turn the tube. Freehand tube cutting takes some effort, but the skill is well worth it. Once the 'upper stage' (actually a cargo section) and lower stage are seperated, gingerly deburr the inside of the tube ends with the edge of the hobby knife, scraping NOT cutting! Now she's all dressed up and ready for the next step...

Here's the pics... to be continued... OL JR

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