Rudder - using tank sealant

Jimzap · Post by **Jimzap** » Mon Oct 31, 2011 1:51 pm

I'm putting the rudder together and am wondering if everyone is using the tank sealant? or another type of adhesive?

If you use the tank sealant, was it in the empennage kit?

If I order some from Vans, should I get the one ounce, is that enough?

Is it used anywhere else in the elevators?

JZ
Lot's of questions, sorry.

Post by **Spike** » Mon Oct 31, 2011 1:54 pm

Yes, use the tank sealant. I tried using some structural epoxy first
and it didn't hold worth a darn. I got mine from some local builders
who had expired pro seal around. It doesn't need to be in date to work
for this purpose. Check with your local builders.

Spike

Submitted via email

smittysrv · Post by **smittysrv** » Mon Oct 31, 2011 2:01 pm

I always keep a quart or sealant in the fridge for when I need some.

http://vansaircraft.com/cgi-bin/catalog ... ct=proseal

You can mix it small batches when you need it.

The following sealant is a waste of money. Mainly because you have mix the whole thing for use and then toss the rest in the trash.

http://vansaircraft.com/cgi-bin/catalog ... uct=cs1900

And no, it doesn't come with the kit. Wear a mask and several pairs of latex gloves, it's nasty stuff.

dons · Post by **dons** » Mon Oct 31, 2011 2:59 pm

I used the tank sealer, but waited to do the rudder final assembly until I was working on the tanks and was up to my elbows in sealant anyway.

bruceh · Post by **bruceh** » Mon Oct 31, 2011 4:09 pm

I went through more than a quart of sealant with the tanks, so order at least two. I have a cheapy digital scale from Harbor Freight to measure out the 2 components on a paper plate for mixing. The proseal will take a couple of days to really set up, but once it is set up it does a good job of holding the trailing edges together for riveting. Mine came out nice and straight.

Jimzap · Post by **Jimzap** » Tue Nov 01, 2011 10:44 pm

Thanks for the info everyone. I plan on buying the quart of tank sealant.
James

captain_john · Post by **captain_john** » Wed Nov 02, 2011 7:05 pm

I made the -8 rudder (the one originally shipped for the -7) and still need to make the -9 rudder (the one NOW shipped for the -7).

I SHOULD work on the -9 rudder NOW and use the balance of the Sikaflex for the trailing edge!

MAN! That stuff is incredible!!!

CJ