Ryan NYP Fuselage Framework with Mounted Wright Whirlwind Engine (1927)

Factory view of uncovered steel-tube fuselage truss on sawhorses with Wright Whirlwind engine mounted. — Ryan NYP Fuselage Framework with Mounted Wright Whirlwind Engine (1927) · Donald A. Hall Estate Collection

A primary construction negative documenting the uncovered welded steel-tube fuselage of the Spirit of St. Louis supported on wooden sawhorses inside the Ryan factory loft. The Wright J-5C Whirlwind radial engine is bolted to the front mounting ring, showing the open structural truss, main fuel tank installation, cockpit enclosure framing, and upper wing attachment joints prior to fabric covering.