landeck

My Feedback: (1)

I have a Svensen Wayfarer Biplane I built in the mid 70's. I flew it for about 4 years before retiring it. I want to get it flying again but it needs to be recovered and all the joints checked. It is covered with silk and dope on the wings and tail and straight dope on the fusalage. What is the best way to completely remove the dope and silk finish?

Bruce

sensei

Just peel it off, silk and dope is easy to peel.

Bob

landeck

My Feedback: (1)

That is what I am doing with the silk covered wings and tail. Because of the age of the plane (33 years) the silk rips easily and won't lift off the wood. In these cases I have to first soften the dope with acetone. In the areas where it is dope straight on wood, I amusing a 3M product called Safest Stripper paint remover. It is safe to use indoors. It has been slow going but progress is being made.

Bruce

Edwin

My Feedback: (2)

Use some acetone.  It should disolve the dope.  When I apply silk or koveral I use a fine paint brush with a little acetone on it to activate the paint on adhesive.  Several times in the beginning I put too much on and previously stuck down cloth would lift up.  A small disposable paint brush ought to do it.

Edwin