first time covering a plane- any tips or hints
Having recently completed my first covering job, an LT-Kadet 40, I would offer the following suggestions:
Get a thermometer and set your iron at the proper temperature as recommedned by the manufacturer, too hot an iron and the covering dosn't seal well.
Practice on some scap pieces to get the feel of how the covering is aplied and how it confoms to the structure. I went as far as to build some open frame pieces to practice on as well.
Stretch the covering well before adhering, if you don't stretch it enough, you won't get it tight.
Make sure you have alot and I mean alot of sharp blades, Monokote dulls them faster than anything.
have several straight edges of varying lenght
I found a trim iron very helpful
Becareful not to get the heat gun too close, or leave it over one area too long. It is frustrating to have to patch up those burn holes in new covering.
Harry Higleys Book was very helpful, also, MinnFlyers How-to was very helpful
and Finally, be very patient. Patience, care and persistnace pay off in the end.
Best of Luck,
Victor