Brief Description: Installing Tail Post Rudder Hinge Bushings
After spending a few quality hours on the tractor clearing out last night’s snowfall, I got into the shop and started on the rudder. First order of business was to drill and install the rudder hinge bushings. It's important they are perpendicular to the fuselage centerline and to the rudder tail post. The way I found to do this was to turn the fuselage exactly 90 degrees. I then strung a tight line from the tail to the front and put on a line level. Once I adjusted the tail and was satisfied the fuselage was level, I put the digital level on the drill guide. This will ensure the bushings are 90 degrees to the fuselage centerline.
Once the holes were drilled I cleaned them up and put in the bushings. Since they are so tiny, it's hard to visualize whether they match or not. I had two pieces of 1/4in stainless rod and I put them in the bushings for a visual reference. Despite the drill guide, one bushing was off a bit (not much) and I realigned the hole with a file. Once the rods were checked to be 90 degrees to the fuselage and the tail post, I tacked them in place. Once more check after tacking and I welded them in.
After welding them, I trimmed them to the 1" size specified in the plans. It was a tedious process, but necessary. Bushings are right and tight, ready to start assembling the rudder.
