Brief Description: Fabrication of tank attach brackets
I decided to tackle the tank attach brackets this morning. To date, I haven't used my bandsaw to cut any aluminum parts but these brackets clearly require a tool beyond the hacksaw. I have a 14" Craftsman bandsaw purchased specifically for the RV-8 project but have been reluctant to use it for cutting metal. After some reading and viewing an EAA Hints for Builders video, I decided to give it a try and it worked great. I set the saw on its slowest speed (1450 fpm) and used the blade that came with the unit (regular tooth, 1/2" wide, 6 teeth per inch).
I marked the angle per the plans using a ruler and compass. Cuts were easy with the bandsaw but a 1/4" blade would have been better around the curves. Nevertheless, I was able to cut close enough to the lines that finishing up with a vixen file and scotchbrite wheel was relatively easy.
I went ahead and cleaned the brackets with a scotchbrite pad, washed with soapy water, wiped with acetone to remove any lingering moisture and fingerprints, and finally primed. I think the brackets look pretty good.
