Right wing ribs complete - 01/11/2011 - 5h

The wing ribs of the right wing are finally completed. Both wing ribs prepping took in total 40h.

I spent another 4 hours in levelling the spar in the wing jig.

Here is the picture with both lower wing skeletons in the jig and ready for matchdrilling the ribs.

I started the levelling of the wings and it will need some more work tomorrow. To measure the twist in the wing, you hang a plumb bob on the spar to a cleco using a fishing line.

The line is not visible in the picture but you can see the plumb bob. One hangs on the inboard, one on the outboard. Measure the distance of the line to the rib. If both values are the same, there is no twist in the wing.

Another trick to make sure the spar is level is to use a fish line along the predrilled holes in the spar. Due to the weight of the structure, the spar will sag. I used a jack to support the wing in the middle and pushed it up until the fishing line from inboard to outboard showed the same distance over the entire length. Here is a picture of the middle of the wing.

To ensure there is no false reading, slide a washer underneith the cleco so the fish wire is a fraction in front of the spar.

Measuring is a time consuming process but no need to underline the importance of having all square and level before starting to matchdrill the holes.

Tomorrow, co-builder Hugo will pass by to verify some of my work and help measuring. He already constructed his wings so he has some experience.

I'm sure I'm being too precise and exagerating on the levelling, wondering about millimeters but I guess it's safer this way then being sloppy.


Site Options

Legal Mumbo-Jumbo

It’s possible (not likely) that I’m not as smart as I think I am. (Occasionally, I have moments when I know this to be true. Fortunately, the feeling passes quickly.) Although I have tried to make this information as accurate as I can, it is not only possible, but also quite likely, that erroneous and misguided information lurks within these pages. I cannot and do not warrant these pages to be error free and correct. Furthermore, I accept no liability for the use of this (mis)information. And, as many would say, your mileage may vary. If, after reading this, you are intent on proceeding, please be aware that the contents of this site are protected by copyright (copyright © 2011 and 2012). Nonetheless, you may copy this material subject to these two conditions: (1) any information used is for non-commercial purposes, and (2) the source of the material is properly credited. Of course, you may link to any page herein. At some articles, snippets of the plans from Vans are visible. These are for educational and illustrations purposes only and should never be used as plans for part construction or assembly as plans may have changed since the picture was taken and more important they are protected by Copyright by the Vans Aircraft Mothership company.