Trailing edge bow
 

I need some advice from the builders here. I am currently building the TF DC-3 kit. Here's my situation. I have the wing fully built and sheeted both sides. While building the ailerons today I noticed the trailing edge of the left wing developed a 1/16 inch bow at some time between the completion of framing and sheeting. Being a perfectionist, this is unacceptable. I know what I would do to fix this if the wing was not sheeted, but not quite sure after the sheeting is completed. Anybody have some old trick to solve my problem.

The trailing edge bows down. 1/16 of an inch doesn't sound like much, but it is very noticeable when looking spanwise down the trailing edge. The rest of the wing is as close to perfect as I can get it with only 1/4 degree off of spec form tip to tip.

Tanks for any replies.

RE: Trailing edge bow
 

You could slice the sheeting, straighten, and fill in the sliced area.

RE: Trailing edge bow
 

Oops, double post.

RE: Trailing edge bow
 

I would slice the trailing edge with a sharp knife first. Pin it back down on a flat surface and wick in cya to the length of the joint. Sand it again to a taper if needed.

RE: Trailing edge bow
 

details. is it the trailing edge only or is the structure bowed also? makes a big difference in the possible solution. dick

RE: Trailing edge bow
 

Thanks for the suggestions guys. I ended up making relief cuts in the trailing edge. I then used a level spaced up 1/16" and clamped to the top of the trailing edge of the wing. This induced a 1/16" bow in the opposite direction it was before. I wicked a bunch of CA into the relief cuts and unclamped. The trailing edge settled to almost perfect.

Note to self: just because the wing was straight 6 months ago does not mean it will remain, it is wood. Just another lesson to be learned for the next kit, probably a C402.