Brodhead Pietenpol Association

Original Posted By: "Carl Loar"
What is the feeling on the wing 3/4 in. spars vs. 1 in. spars?If the 3/4 in. spars are used, should they be routed?We recieved a full set of B.H.P. plans from D.H.P.. The full size rib planis signifucantly different from the plans. Should it be disregarded and anew full size templet drawn from the plans? Rebecca Smith (Writen by Pete, typed by Rebecca)________________________________________________________________________________

Original Posted By: del magsam

Original Posted By: "walter evans"
Subject: Re: Pietenpol-List: wing questionsI have recently completely both my wings. My spars are select Doug Fir. I ripped and planed them to 3/4. Looking back I would:::Make 4 butt ribs, 2 regular ribs and 2 end ribs for 1 inch spar, all the other ribs for 3/4 spar. IF, IF, you are dressing your own spar material, cut the upper side of spars to match the curvature of the ribs. Saves time and looks more professional.Make all steel wing fittings. It has been suggested that the lift strut fittings be made longer than the plans so the angle will be in a more straight line with the strut. I located the fittings on the spars and drilled all holes with the drill press. To assemble the wing string the ribs to near location. Glue your spar plates ( 1/8 plywood) on one side only. When dry drill through the spar holes. Glue other sides, drill through spar holes. Locate the center 1 in rib over the spar plates, repeat for butt and tip ribs. This will give you a 1 inch space between your wing fittings. When you get to your centersection, I used 1/16 plywood for reinforcing BECAUSE I wanted the wing fittings to fit on the outside of the centersection fittings. I had to do a little dressing down to correct the .035 overall oversize but it works nicely. I would NOT rout my spars . It took the better part of two days, saved only about 6 1/2 lbs. and made the biggest mess I've had in my shop. It also took away the beauty of my spars. Leave off the pasta for awhile and it will average out.Be sure and follow the plans to the nth on the aileron. Do not cut it away from the rib UNTIL after it is completely finished to include the hinges ( strap hinges) Piano hinge may dictate otherwiseThese were a few after thoughts which I wish I had had before building my wings. For good or bad, use what of it you want afterall it's your life up there. Happy buildingCorky in cold La________________________________________________________________________________

Original Posted By: Michael D Cuy
Use the 90 deg ply, just remember to put a thin coat of epoxy on the inside of the gusset before you glue it into position. That saves you having to epoxy varnish it after the rib is built when those nooks and crevices are hard to get to. Definitely put the vertical piece in the rib to adhere to the rear of each spar. It keeps the ribs equally in position and the you don't have to use those nails into the top and bottom of the spar (which weakens the capstrip).Jeff Hill in Texas starting on the 2nd pietDiscover the best of the best at MSN Luxury Living. http://lexus.msn.com/__________________ ... ______Date: Mon, 02 Aug 2004 11:10:25 -0400