cut out the window opening. Finally looks like what it's supposed to be... sort of.
Couldn't resist these eBay finds: gear handle and flap handle "knob" from some sort of Piper. Less than $40 with shipping; well worth it for a little more realism.
The gear handle has a built-in detent spring, and the flap handle is drilled and tapped, ready for a bit of bar stock drilled so I can use screws to attach it.
then I just have to fab the switches...
