Brief Description: Vertical Stabilizer Leading Edge
Ran errands most of the day, but I did get into the shop for a few hours. Along with the shape of the rudder, this is part of what really defines the look of the Bearhawk, so getting it right is important. I took a cue from Wayne Massey's site and made a cardboard template.
I notched the bottom of the cardboard so I would get in the same place every time. I measured out the location of the front ribs, then plotted the length of each. That, along with the bottom tube and the tip of the rudder will give me enough reference points to draw a nice arc that defines the leading edge. After I drew the profile, I checked it back on the fuselage and it looked good...nice transition. I then cut out the line with a utility knife and tried to be careful in cutting a smooth arc. Once that was done, I put the template back on the fuselage for one last check. I took the cardboard and transferred the outline to the top of my work table. I smoothed out any hiccups in the line and screwed on some reference blocks. It was relatively easy bending the T8 tube since it is a gradual curve. Once bent and the sweet spot located, I cut it to length and fit it. It really transitions nice! Tomorrow I'll start on the ribs.
