Wings #7

Fixturing used to hold ribs straight

More wing work this past week.  In my last post, I showed the fixture I used to form the capstrips.  I got them installed on the top half of the wing.  Went well, but I went to great lengths to make sure the ribs were straight before gluing them on - do not like the look of wavy or curved ribs thru the covering!!

Installed capstrips on top half of wing

Detail of capstrips

A #2 brass screw was added to the end of the
capstrip to hold it down tight while the glue dried

Andy and Dennis also got all the aileron ribs made.  Can't say enough how much I appreciate these guys help.  They are saving me a bunch of time, and their work is impeccable!
The ribs are made from basswood like the main wing ribs.  A comment about the basswood:  I've never worked with it before this project, but that's what was originally used.  It makes a nice rib - lightweight, tight grain (although the grain can sometimes be a little stringy when cutting), and decent strength.  Plus, it's way cheaper than spruce!  I wouldn't hesitate using it again if the need arose.


With the ribs and spars now complete, I can start assembling the aileron.  That's what I'll be working on this next week.