@bikerbc, thanks so much for your input and advice. I had already removed the covering, but I am glad you detailed it, as it is always a good idea to review your methods. I appreciate all of your insight and help.
I think I will be doing the slow-cure epoxy route, and if I damage the tail-feathers, well, I will have to buy a new fuse and tail (probably a whole new plane given the costs of the fuse & tail individually! )
Thanks again!
-vr