Should I fill this gap?

[tims88]

On my fuselage, the side skin and bottom skin did not come together very well at the very front where they meet at the firewall. The gap is about 1/32" wide. I planned to cover it from the inside with a small dab of sealant of some kind but figured I would get some more opinions. Should I fill/cover it? And if so, how would you recommend doing that? Maybe leave it for the painter to deal with? Thanks

 

[FredMagare]

It appears that this opening could be susceptible to exhaust infiltration. (IDK as I've not built a -10.) If there is risk, find a way to seal the gap is my thinking. Proseal or some other durable (and paintable) sealant would be my choice.

 

[Raiz]

Same thing happened on mine. The gap is closed by the longeron behind except for a short distance next to the firewall. I put proseal just in that gap. On the advice of my paint shop, I left the rest for them.

 

[PaulvS]

I would cover it from the inside with a small square of self-adhesive aluminum tape or good quality duct tape, before going to the painter.

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3M™ Aluminum Prop Tape 427 - 2 Inch 3M Aluminum Foil Tape 427, dead-soft aluminum foil backing, excellent heat and light reflection to protect against high temperatures and U.V. degradation.

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[tims88]

Thanks everyone! I'll cover it up from the inside with one of the suggested options.