Built the left flap
TLDR
- Riveted the left flap (except leading row of rivets)
Details
Yesterday I already prepared the ribs and skin for the left flap, so today’s work was mostly straightforward.
I first clecoed the parts together, first bottom side then top side.
I then took a quick look at the bend on both edges, and there was no bend. This is the same situate as the right flap/aileron. On the right, I also ran into slight bend on the aileron and no bend on the flap. At least they are symmetrical. Hmm.
Then I started to insert 3.2mm rivets. No match drilling needed. A few holes needed to a bit more force to push, but easy enough.
After that, I shot all the rivets.
The whole process was very smooth and pleasant :->
EAA tech counseling
I reached out to Jason, a member of my local EAA chapter and also a technical counselor to look over my work. We agreed to a date later this month so I can show him my work.
With this scheduled it changed my work plan a little. I was orignally hopeing to close the left wing skin soon. But now I want to keep it open for Jason to look at.
So I think I will switch back to the right wing - since the top skin is already closed. I will work on getting the right aileron/flap fitted, change the leading edge, and getting the fuel tank started if I have time.
Issue with countersink skin
I am not sure I mentioned this in my previous blog or not. But I ran into a signficant misalignment on the main spar countersink reinforcement plate.
Since this plate’s main purpose is to provide extra thickness and surface area to the countersink rivets, I didn’t like the idea of match drilling. Besides, at this level of misalignment, the match drilling will for sure enlarge the holes too much if I measure using AC43-13’s standard.
I asked Sling technical if it’s ok to cut the plate in half and align them individually, and they said Yes. So that’s great news as in I don’t need to manufacture a separate plate.
I will cut it when I get to the riveting part with the plate and leading edge skin.