|
|
|
|
Dave's RV-7A Builder's Log
|
Date: 5-26-2017
|
Number of Hours: 7.50
|
Manual Reference:
|
Brief Description: Windscreen fairing fabrication
|
|
Today was the day I had set aside for doing the bulk of the fiberglass work on the windscreen fairing. After reading a number of different techniques and watching the Van’s RV-14 videos demonstrating their recommended methods, I figured I was ready to go. Like most jobs involving the application of paint, glue…or in this case, epoxy, the preparation is usually just as important as the application, so I made sure the prep work was complete. This involved a lot more sanding, thorough cleaning of all surfaces, cutting templates, and then a full inventory of supplies and tools: resin & hardener, fiberglass cloth, smooth clean cutting surface, rotary cutter, templates, mixing cups & sticks, gloves, peel ply fabric, paint brushes for epoxy application.
Once I was sure that I had everything I began cutting the fabric using the templates. I was impressed at how easy it was with the rotary cutter, but soon figured out that even with careful handling, the edges were very prone to fraying—cutting exactly along the seam was critical, and I have to say I didn’t get it perfect…that would play into things during the application as I did tend to get some rogue fibers as I went along. The first application of fiberglass is done wet with tinted epoxy, so I mixed up a batch and began the process of applying it to the fuselage. That part actually went pretty well and for the first time I began thinking this wouldn’t be so bad. The next several layers were applied dry, with clear epoxy resin applied over the top, and the second picture shows the general idea. After filling lots of low spots, I applied the last layer in the front and cut the peel ply strips.
One more coat of epoxy and the peel ply was put in place to finish everything off. Next session I’ll remove the peel ply and start getting an idea of what needs to be done next. There will undoubtedly be a number of spots that need major attention, but all in all, I feel pretty good about the whole process.
|
|
It all looks so neat and clean at this stage
|
|
First layer on, starting next layer
|
|
Final layer of peel ply in place
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Copyright © 2001-2024 Matronics. All Rights Reserved.
|
