There are 11 parts in each main landing gear strut. Since it would be easier to paint with the parts to be flat black separate from the silver and semigloss
black parts, the struts were not glued to the upper bulkhead parts until after painting. The upper parts were used as jigs while assembling the struts.
The front mounting bulkhead had to be taped in place, but the rear fit snug enough to stay in place.