Redback

Anyone got a method for removing Robart hinges? I had one break when my TF Corsair when in hard after a deadstick (see crash forum to read more[]).

I was thinking of trying to use a piece of heated wire to melt the start of a hole down the axis of the hinge and then carefully drill out using the pilot hole created but would appreciate hearing other ideas.

If all else fails I can install new hinges next to the old ones, but would prefer to avoid if possible.

Terry

MetallicaJunkie

I think cutting them off flush on both ends would be easiest, and install new ones next to them....I think you run the risk of causing more damage by trying to remove them

Krener

Hey Terry.
Drilling them sounds ok but the issue is removing the glue that was holding it in place.
You need some raw wood around the hinge barb for your glue to bite into, unless you drill it out and make a LARGER hole (not advisable)

Cut it flush & make a new one next to it providing you have enough wood to drill into. If not open up the surface & put some hinge blocks in.

Any idea why she dead sticked in the first place??

sensei

This works very good, get a 3/16 ID brass tude and sharpen one end, on the other end slide a dowl about one inch inside, leave some of the dowl hanging out so you can remove it to get the hinges out that get stuck inside as you remove them.

Bob

Gray Beard

My Feedback: (-1)

Now that is one great idea!!!!!!!!

Redback

Yep, I like it too - will give it a go for sure, can always default to new hinges if I dont like the results.

Hi Sean,

Haven't got into any cause analysis yet. Motor was out of my previous Corsair, had enough run time but was not old either and had always been faultless. Tank and plumbing were all new also. Before it cut the motor hesitated then picked up enough that I thought I might get round for a landing, but it cut on the downwind leg and I had to bring it back from over the trees. Will definitely need to give it a good going over before flying again.

Once I get the stab back on may put to one side for a while and finish the Ultra Sport.

Terry

bigtim

My Feedback: (13)

I got to second that great idea.

I just finished removing hinge points from the flaps on my TF P-40 refurb project I am doing,check the kit building section for the P-40 build thread, I fed a small drill bit down the center point of the hinge after cutting the pivot point off, then fed a 1/8 drill bit down that pilot hole.

the hole it leaves behind works perfect for installing the replacement hinge, with little dammage to the surounding area, the glue did a good job of holding the surrounding area together.

Krener

Yeah, the Ultrasport would be nice.
Gonna get another one soon.

Love the idea of the brass tube!!

sensei

I didn't have time to finish the post last night, so here it is.

After I remove all the hinges, I take 1/4" X 1/4" balsa sticks cut about 1.0" long and place them in a bowl of water, next I use a Q tip and Gorilla glue and swab the inside of the holes, about 5 or six at a time, and slide the dampended sticks into them; the moisture will cause the Gorilla glut to foam, When all are finished; I allow to sit overnight, then block sand everything flush and re-drill right down the centers of the end grain balsa. This makes for a very tough hardpoint for the installation of new hinges. Hers are a couple more pictures, in a couple of them you can see the drill blocks that I made for drilling new and reinstall of hinges.

Bob