Dad came over to help for the first time on the project. I put him to work on the rudder while I worked on priming the parts for the Vertical Stabilizer.
I have decided to use the Alumiprep, Acetone wipe, AKZO 463 2 part epoxy primer. I purchased the cheap HF spray gun and did some reading about how to have success.
I am not overly thrilled with the results. I started at 25 PSI at the gun inlet and moved up to 30 to see if I could get a better pattern. As you can see from the pictures there are some places where it looks almost like the paint did not adhere to the bare AL. I also think I am putting it on too thick, maybe being too close to the components when spraying. Things got better as I sprayed more but still need some work on the technique. Going to get a regulator for the gun along with a better dryer/water separator in line. I have a dedicated air hose for spraying so I know it is not an oil issue.
I started with 4 oz of each of the two parts. Had to mix a second 8oz batch (4 oz each) to finish the pieces and the inside of the skin.
Completed 6-4 step 6 & 7 which is the first rivets. Using both the gun and the pneumatic squeezer to get a feel for the process. This also means I had the pleasure of drilling out my first rivet (but certainly not the last as I have since found out)
Completed 6-5 step 1 & 2 as well. Riveting the stiffeners and top rudder hinge bracket in place .
