The Ruddervator Skins were pre-bent/formed. It had to be cut on one side. Somewhat of a compound angular cut was needed. The top length at the back edge (overlapping edge) is supposed to be 29/64ths longer than the bottom length. The directions/dimensions for the cut was confusing. Sonex could have better described the cut if they would have added one more measurement to the plans. I cut one a little wrong but it was not off so much that I was unable to make it work.
Bob loaned me this great tool (an Adel Hand Nibbling Tool) to make the cut. It gave me great control of the cut. Because the skin material is pre-bent/formed and because it needed a compound angular cut I did not feel comfortable using the band saw.
The ribs came pre-formed in the kit so they were easily fitted into the Skin form. The ribs nor the skin is pilot hole drilled so you are required to measure and mark rivet holes locations. I drilled the skin first on my marks. Then I marked a line down the middle of the rib edges so that the ribs could be inserted and located in place before drilling. It’s a little difficult to find a way to clamp the ribs in place before drilling. I recommend you clamp, drill and cleco the back edge first which helps to align the ribs for drilling down the previously drill skin holes. Also as part of this assembly Drive Plate was riveted to the Root Rib. The Drive Plate was supplied in the Machine Angle Option. It required a bend which was completed previously. This assembly was clearly described in the plans.
