Bits & Pieces - No 5

This blog covers most of the last small tasks related to the rudder at final assembly.


Rudder Fairing

Tucano Tail

While only a just a little untidy it qualified for a upgrade and it's not a lot of work. 

A strip of 0.020" 2024-T3 sheet was cut, lower rivets removed, strip clecoed into position and rudder movement checked OK.

Once satisfied it was installed and riveted.

Note: The fairing bell mouthed slightly as it 
is really a developed shape and mine was straight but the result was acceptable.

Fairing upgrade

D Shackle

Rudder D Shackles
The factory supplied connection was replaced with a D shackles fixed with a clevis pin and castellated nut. 

This was changed as the original connection did not create a double shear connection but has now been upgraded for the aerobatic kits.




Rudder Adjustment
The top bearing is adjustable laterally to align the rudder mass balance and stab and is has slotted mounts for this task - after nipping one top bolt a blade screwdriver used to lever the rudder into its final location. 

There are two 3.2 mm holes provided to allow a permanent location relative to the vertical  spar.   

Fuselage Gap Seal
The junction between the fuselage and vertical spar has a noticeable gap this was sealer with Selleys Black SolarFlex silicone sealant. Two masking tape verticals wers applied and a bead of silicone added. This was then wiped using a disposable towel and allowed to cure.

First application of sealant
Tape removed after wiping silicone

After curing a second application was applied repeating the technique outline above.

Electrical Connections
The aircraft has been fitted with a white tail  light and red strobe. As an ultralight it cannot be flown at night but as it is in full camouflage it was decided to make myself a little more visible.

The connection was finished using the factory access panel to complete the connection. The plug is mounted on a tang located on the second rear bulkhead. the connecting cable in the fairing has a service loop to allow it to be extracted for servicing as shown below.

Final assembly before electrical testing / painting
The rivets shafts are a perfect match for the rivet nuts bore
and providing a perfect temporary fixing

Comment
Took a long day to tidy up all these small loose ends and others but it is now ready for paint preparation. Once painted the clevis bolts will be fitted, pinned as I want the rudder to be able to be deflected for painting.