Mike,
Ellis's book is meant as a guide, not a step by step, as he says in the book. If you've been a machinist for 40+ yrs, it might be a little vague. For those of us who are new to machining and building doubles, I think it is great to give you a place to start.

He(Ellis) is a member of this forum and is very helpful. When you get to soldering ribs and such, I'm sure he'd be happy to help. Just shoot him a PM or an email.

Good luck and enjoy

Ryan Walter