proseal on the rudder

Joew · Post by **Joew** » Sat Apr 19, 2008 9:14 pm

Hey gang,
I have another question for your great minds. I've heard of cracks developing in the rudder near the stiffiners. To prevent cracks, I've heard of folks using proseal on the stiffeners prior to riviting and rtv near the rudder trailing edge similiar to the elevator.
What are your thought? I may try it, but do not know how to proceed.

Let me know,
Thanks, joe

captain_john · Post by **captain_john** » Sun Apr 20, 2008 6:38 am

Hey Joe, I never een thought about prosealing the stiffies in place!

Personally, I like the idea! Although, the cracking problems were typically associated with the thinner skins on the early -4's.

It really can't hurt to do it on your project. It will distribute the pressure a bit more evenly, although I am willing to bet that the most pressure would be concentrated outside of the stiffener's reach.

The RTV between the trailing edges of the stiffies is in the plans. Theoretically it keeps the trailing edge from compressing and more or less ties the two opposing stiffies together.

CJ

Joew · Post by **Joew** » Sun Apr 20, 2008 10:07 am

I think I will give it a try, my proseal came in yesterday. I think I will apply a thin coat to the stiffener and rivet them while it's wet. I will apply a light coat of primer to the stiffeners, but will not plan to prime the skin below the stiffener. I'll let you know how it works.

cjensen · Post by **cjensen** » Sun Apr 20, 2008 5:34 pm

Take some pics along the way, and post 'em if you can! Love to see it!