please help me with wing joining techniques - LT40
 

I'm a total newbie and managed to screw up the assembly of my new SIG Kadet LT40. While joining the wings, I didn't get the plywood wing joiner seated deep enough in the right wing panel. Unfortunately, I didn't notice this until it was set solid as a rock. The only thing I can think of is to cut the wing joiner off flush with the right wing panel, then drill the end that is mounted in the right wing panel to accept some sort of dowel rod or wire to serve as a replacement wing joiner.

Can any experienced builders out there give me some advice or suggestions?

Thanks for your help!!!!!!

RE: please help me with wing joining techniques - LT40
 

[&:]

Well... do you have the pattern for the joiner? (the piece of scrap it pressed out from is fine)

Cut the pattern in half on the line between the center wing ribs according to the plan. Place that over the mispositioned joiner and mark it.

How much of the joiner is outside of the marks?

If its a small amount (like about 1/16 inch) just trim the joiner to allow the wings to join up properly and don't worry about it.

If its a huge amount (like near 1/4 of the joiner area extending out) then you need to replace the joiner's strength for sure. (the surgery on the wing isn't as bad as you may think)

If its in between... can you get a picture posted?

RE: please help me with wing joining techniques - LT40
 

The joiner is misaligned by about 5/16", i.e., should have been seated 5/16" deeper. I'll try your suggestion to just trim and shape the exposed portion to make it fit. I don't imagine the strength would be compromised, and because the dihedral is pretty shallow on this wing, it just might work.

Thanks for your reply, I appreciate the help!

RE: please help me with wing joining techniques - LT40
 

I have had some success in the past using a hot knife to separate epoxied joints. Before you go ripping into the wing you might give it a try. Just a thought.