11
Sealing the Hinge Gaps
It’s imperative that the aileron and elevator hinge lines be sealed
airtight to prevent flutter. Sealing the hinge line has several
advantages. A sealed hinge line gives a greater control response
for a given control deflection. It also offers more precise,
consistent control response and makes trimming easier.
Sealing the aileron and elevator hinge line is
mandatory. Failure to do so may cause control surface
flutter, resulting in a crash.
Step 1.
Cut a piece of Pearl Blue UltraCote
®
(not included)
for sealing the ailerons to approximately 3" x 42". Fold the
UltraCote
®
down the center with the adhesive side to the outside
making a sharp crease at the fold.
Step 2.
Using a ruler, measure
1
/
2
" from the folded crease and
mark two places with a pen.
Step 3.
Using a sharp #11 blade and a straight edge, carefully
cut through both layers of UltraCote
®
covering at the
1
/
2
" point
marked in Step 2.
Step 4.
Mark and cut the folded covering to an overall length
of 40". This piece will be inserted and ironed down into the hinge
bevel on the bottom of the aileron.
Section 3: Hinging and Sealing the Control Surfaces
CONTINUED
