I sent a query into Van’s tech support on Monday regarding the bowed trailing edge of the rudder. I had been thinking that maybe I could pry apart the trailing edge, clean it up, and reseal it, while hoping to get it straighter. I was worried that I would likely damage it in trying to pry it apart though. Van’s said it was OK as is and that it wouldn’t affect the flying qualities much. I was happy to hear that.
I taped in the 3.5 flush rivets in the trailing edge
Back riveted the trailing edge rivets as described in the plans (set every 10th rivet, then every 5th, etc).
Flipped the rudder over and used the flush rivet gun die to finish off the rivets from the manufactured head side. Noted that some of the dried sealant was emerging around the rivets as they were driven.
Came out pretty good. The trailing edge still has the bow in it, and a slightly beat up look to it from the rivet gun, but I think it is fine.
