Originally Posted by
Rapid13
Thanks for the input guys! I've been checking out clubs in my area. I found one that operates a field ten minutes from my house and has a beginner program. As far as an engine goes I think I will go with the LA because it will work in the PT40 and seems like a reliable engine (plus it's cheap). I can always upgrade the engine when I get into another plane. And, if I crash and wreck the engine I won't feel as bad. Other than that I'm not doing more building until this weekend but I looking forward to trying spackle as filler. I take it that if I don't fill the gaps the monocote will shrink into it and be visible.
The lightweight spackle does fill the gaps but adds no strength to the joint. Some time ago I gave up on the spackle when I had a bit of trouble with it becoming unstable and soft when I passed the iron over it. I had sanded it dead smooth but during the covering process I must have lingered to long where the spackling was and now the finish was not as smooth as would have preferred. From then on I filled any imperfections with balsa wood slivers and carpenters glue. Like Greybeard’s timeline dry and sandable after sitting overnight and the benefit is it adds strength to the joint. Its all personal preference find a system that works for you and you’re golden.
Dennis