tower kote?
04-09-2008, 02:36 PM
#2
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RE: tower kote?
I used it to cover part of the wing when I repaired a trainer. It is low temerature covering and it doesn't shrink a lot. My patch job looked "OK" and stayed on about as well as the original ARF covering. I have read that it is not fuel proof and that oil will seep under the seams and make it come off.
People sometimes use this, and Econokote, to cover foam wings that cannot handle high temperature covering. Combat guys use it. Those wings usually get detroyed quickly enough that they don't have to worry whether it's really fuel proof.
People sometimes use this, and Econokote, to cover foam wings that cannot handle high temperature covering. Combat guys use it. Those wings usually get detroyed quickly enough that they don't have to worry whether it's really fuel proof.
04-09-2008, 03:14 PM
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RE: tower kote?
The actual covering is fuel proof. The trouble lies in the fact that it doesn't adhere to the balsa as well as other plastic coverings, leaving the opportunity for edges to lift allowing fuel underneath. If applied correctly with all seams facing against the airflow, fuel soaking will not be an issue. It is similiar to econokote and is applied at a lower temperature. It is suprisingly easy to work around corners and curves. The only downfall I can see, is that it is noticably thinner than others and will tear if you pull too hard when applying.
04-09-2008, 08:56 PM
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RE: tower kote?
The balsarite was never said to be fuel proof or make anything fuel proof.
It does however allow covering to stick so much better than not using it.
I apply it to any part of plane that will have covering applied to it.
I only use 1 coat.
P.S. I have used all brands of covering & never had any problems.
Must be preparation.
Mike
It does however allow covering to stick so much better than not using it.
I apply it to any part of plane that will have covering applied to it.
I only use 1 coat.
P.S. I have used all brands of covering & never had any problems.
Must be preparation.
Mike
hehe...
04-11-2008, 11:54 AM
#14
RE: tower kote?
Towerkote is an Econokote "2nd". It is thinner than Monokote and although it is a low temp film, it tends to get brittle quickly. The adhesive is of marginal quality and if you decide to paint the airframe with Balsarite or SIG StixIt for proper adhesion, any weight savings will be lost.
For planes with a short life expectancy (combat planes) it is probably a good choice.
For planes you want to keep awhile I suggest a decent covering. If you want/need low heat use Ultracote, if you need a fabric go with SolarTex (or any of the "Tex" coverings). If you need a super lightweight covering (.6 oz per sq yd, that is point 6 oz !! ) use Solarfilm or Micafilm. Be aware that neither of the super lightweight films are fuel proof and due to the inherent static electricity, can be "interesting" to apply.
For planes with a short life expectancy (combat planes) it is probably a good choice.
For planes you want to keep awhile I suggest a decent covering. If you want/need low heat use Ultracote, if you need a fabric go with SolarTex (or any of the "Tex" coverings). If you need a super lightweight covering (.6 oz per sq yd, that is point 6 oz !! ) use Solarfilm or Micafilm. Be aware that neither of the super lightweight films are fuel proof and due to the inherent static electricity, can be "interesting" to apply.
