20
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Test-fit the tail wheel wire into the predrilled hole and groove. When
properly aligned, the front edge of the tail wheel wire should be flush
with the leading edge of the rudder and the nylon bearing should rest
within the precut groove.
❑
When satisfied with the fit and alignment, remove the tail wheel wire and use 220 grit sandpaper to roughen
only
the gluing
surface of the wire.
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WARNING
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When gluing the tail wheel wire into the rudder in the next procedure, do not get epoxy between the tail wheel wire
and the nylon bearing. If you do, the rudder won't be able to pivot right and left. Do not glue the nylon bearing into the groove in
the rudder either. We suggest applying lightweight oil or petroleum jelly to the pivot point of the nylon bearing to prevent this. Do
not get any oil or petroleum jelly on the mounting tab.
❑
Glue the tail wheel wire into the rudder, using a generous amount of 5 minute epoxy. Remove any excess epoxy, using a paper
towel and rubbing alcohol, and allow the epoxy to set up before proceeding.
STEP 4: HINGING THE RUDDER
❑
Using a modeling knife, cut away and remove the covering material from over the precut nylon bearing groove in the back edge
of the fuselage.
❑
Use 220 grit sandpaper with a sanding block to lightly sand each side of the mounting tab on the nylon bearing to roughen the
smooth surface, then apply a thin layer of lightweight oil or petroleum jelly to the pivot point of the nylon bearing to prevent epoxy
from gluing the nylon bearing to the tail wheel wire.
❑
Mix a small quantity of 5 minute epoxy and apply a thin layer to ONLY the mounting tab on the nylon bearing and into the precut
groove in the back edge of the fuselage.
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Push two T-Pins through the center of one C/A-style rudder hinge.
❑
Slide the hinge into the hinge slot in the rudder, making sure that you
push the hinge in up to the T-Pins.
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Don't glue the hinge into the rudder yet.
❑
Hinge the rudder to the fuselage, using the same techniques that
you used to hinge the elevator to the stabilizer. The bottom of the
rudder should be even with the bottom of the fuselage and the rudder
counterbalance should not rub against the top of the fuselage. There
should also not be more than a 1/32" wide hinge gap.
❑
Allow the C/A and epoxy to dry for about 15 minutes, then pivot
the rudder right and left several times to free up the hinges. Like
with the aileron hinges, if there is any excess dried epoxy on the nylon
bearing, it can be carefully cut away using the tip of your modeling knife.
