Plane panels pose perplexing puzzle

Working on a plane is sometimes a bit of a puzzle. Here we see the confusing mass of cowling panels from the FHC’s B-25J Mitchell. Putting them back in the proper places does, in fact, sometimes give the mechanics pause. However, there are a lot of hints. First, laying them out properly when you pull them off the aircraft helps immensely. The exhaust stacks, of course, point aft, giving a big hint to orientation. Paint on the panels lets you know if they go on the top or bottom. Shape, as well, offers great clues that get most panels positioned on the first try. And, though these ranks of cowling parts look daunting, the process gets easier with every panel you fit into place.