Composite-ARF Spitfire
11
Horizontal Stab Installation
The horizontal stab will be install
using a slow setting, fiber reinforced
epoxy. Start by test fitting the stab
into the fuse. The stab is installed by
sliding it in from the side, not the
back and without the elevators
installed. Install a ball link into the
elevator control horn, and then
mount the elevator onto the stab with
the 1mm wire provided. The control
horn will center the stab in the fuse
as shown in the photo. A
measurement will be taken from the
center seam of the fuse, at a panel
line to the tip of the stab which will
insure the stab is perpendicular to
the fuse. Compare the
measurement from side to side
moving the front of the stab until both
sides are equal. With the stab in
position, apply tape to the stab
around the fillet making alignment
easer when gluing the stab in later.
Install the wing. This will help us to
check the horizontal alignment.
Looking at the plane from the rear,
make sure the stab is parallel with
the wing. Once satisfied with the fit,
remove the stab. Using the tape as
a guide, scuff the area of the stab
that will be glued to the fillet. Also,
scuff the inside of the fillet
The stab can now be installed and
glued in. With the stab installed,
slide it rearward about 1inch. This
will expose the glue area of the stab.
(see photos on next page) We
would recommend a slow setting
epoxy here to allow plenty of working
time. Apply glue to the stab and to
the areas of the fuse you have
access to.
continued
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