Tip: Aileron leading edge skin

[Av8torTom]

When building my RV9 ailerons, I found it a real challenge to bring together the top of the leading edge skin to the aileron spar. I solved this problem with a ratchet strap under the work bench and up over the aileron.



I used a piece of 2x2 steel tube stock to weigh down the aileron which also made a convenient place for the ratchet mechanism to sit on (and not scratch or dent the top skin). The steel bar also assured everything came out nice and flat and true. I can't tell you how much easier this makes things. I used the strap to final drill the rivet holes, and then again to cleco everything back together for riveting.

[mculver]

Thanks for posting! Will be doing this soon, and will use your technique

[Vlad]

Beats mine.The flaps on 9 are long and need a lot of weight to keep skin down. I could not figure out anything better then this

[Av8torTom]

Same technique worked for flaps too

[agirard7a]

Hey Tom, nice work, dont you just love inventing things to make your build go better. Part of what I like most about the build process. Got a good one for you for clamping/glueing the canopy to the side rails when your ready.