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Old 01-24-2004 | 10:09 AM
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Bob Pastorello
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From: El Reno, OK
Default RE: preferred hinge in pattern

After ONCE having an aileron on a pattern plane try to come Un-hinged, I landed on this formula, and although a bit more work, I have not had a single hinge ever loosen since.
1. I cover everything, and hinge last.
2. After marking center lines (I use the MK guide for that), I cut with a NEW #11 Exacto blade.
3. Using a razor, or another new #11, a carefully cut the covering away from the slots, about 1/16" on both sides, and on both the fixed and movable parts. This ensures "bare wood" for the CA to penetrate.
4. Draw center lines across the hinges with a pencil. This does a couple things; makes an area of the hinge that won't wick CA and stiffen, flex, and wear, and it gives a good reference point for depth.
5. Insert hinges in the movable parts. CA in place, 3 or 4 drops on both sides of the hinge. The first time you do it this way, you'll SEE the CA wicking into the hinge and the surrounding wood. If the covering is still there, a LOT of the CA wicks under the covering, and DOES NOT follow the hinge material into the wood.
6. "Dry install" the surfaces into the fixed parts. I do this to make certain of slot alignments, widths, etc. It's easy to move a slot a hinge width up or down with a very sharp blade, and WAY easier at this stage before gluing
7. When satisfied with everything, install, right up to the line, and CA. I always do this with gravity helping; I'll hold the wing panel with chord vertical, flex the aileron and do one side at a time.

This may seem pretty anal, and a lot of work, but you for sure won't have a hinge failure ruin your day. And by the way, I *only* use Radio South Pro Hinges....