sharkey

Can anyone explain the metod of sealing hinge lines.I have read in other forums that this can be done with 2in clear postal tape.Any pictures or comments would be greatly appreciated.

MinnFlyer

My Feedback: (4)

The trick is to do the underside, bend the control surface away from you, and get the tape all the way down into the "V" between the trailing edge of the wing and the leading edge of the control surface.

This can be tricky with tape due to it's stickyness. I would suggest spraying a little soapy water on the area first, then you can slide the tape into position and let it sit overnight to dry. Once dried, it will stay in place.

bob_nj

My Feedback: (62)

How do you get those cool little diagrams in there?

Dsegal

The easiest way to seal hinge gaps is by using covering material. Cut two strips about 1/2" wide. Turn the adhesive sides toward one another, overlap the strips by 1/8" and iron the strips together. You will need a trim iron to do this and a sheet of glass is the recommended working surface. Cut the strip to fit between the hinges. Slide the strip through the gap and iron one side to the top of the wing and the other side to the bottom of the aileron. The best thing about this technique is that absolutely no binding of the controls results. This was spelled out by Dean Pappas in Flying Models magazine a few years ago.

Dave Segal

Vince

My Feedback: (1)

The really easy way is to just purchase some hing gap seal tape from Northeast Sailplane.

Vince

sharkey

Thanks for your replies on this subject.Dave on your method,is this one continuous strip down the entire length of the aileron or is this done between each individual hinge.Pics would be greatly appreciated. Thanks SHARKEY

MinnFlyer

My Feedback: (4)

That way would have to be done between each hinge

Giant Scale

As long as you fully deflect the surface before you apply the gap sealing material, the surface should not bind. I like 3m blenderm tape or monokote covering, both work very well.