RE: Thorpe F-20 build
Getting back to the F-20. Started planking the fuse. Also glued second base in place under the nose and started shaping it into place. Here are a few pics of my way to plank. No one ever showed me how to plank, so this is just what I came up with. If someone knows a better way, please tell me.
I use paper to make a pattern to make sure I get the geometry right. Then I cut the balsa sheet to the pattern with #11 exacto knife. Then spray windex on the side that will not be glued and work it till it softens and bends easily and make sure it fits. Sand here and there for a good fit. Then mix up some 30 minute epoxy and put it in the stringers, bulkheads, and edges where the plank will set against. Try only to put glue on half the plank where another plank will have to be glued later. I don't put any glue on the plank. Then I pin the plank in place and scrap up any excess glue. I use little spring clamps sometimes also. After the glue sets (30 min) I pull the pins and clamps. Any loose spots are glued with quick CA.
I have ordered a Wren 44 for this plane. Decided against using the Wren 75.
Terry