Hi everyone,

recently in transport the rudder to my e-flite P51 Blondie (deflection surface) came clean off the plane. The only piece holding in together is the pushrod attached to it's control horn. What is the best way to rehinge it? Do I run a piece of hinge/strapping tape down the seam/gap as I deflect it to one side. I would of posted this on the wattflyer site but there really isn't a board for repairs or how-tos.

Thanks,

That is probably the exact route I would go as long as it looks like it will hold the fin rudder in alignment well.

I am assuming this plane doesn't go 100 mph

Nope, not yet anyway.

Down one side?

Not the best way.

Problem with foam and tape is how long will the tape hold. Running the tape down one side doesn't stress the tape when the surface is deflected away from the side that is taped, but when the surface is deflected the other way it tries to untape the hinge line. No matter how well the tape sticks to the foam it either pulls away from the foam or pulls up some foam.

When you have tape that sticks good, turn it into "cloth hinges" (from model airplane ancient history).


Those hinges were just strips of cloth. You can do the same with sticky tape and not have to deal with the glue. Use whatever tape sticks the best. It's easy, doesn't take much time, and makes very strong and durable hinges.

I have installed CA type hinges by cutting the slots with an exacto knife and using foam safe CA glue applied to the hinge before you slide it into the slot.

Easiest way: Use Blenderm brand clear surgical tape. Sticks very well.
Hold Rudder in place but deflected about 30 degrees. Apply tape to opposite side I.e., if deflected to the right, place tape on left. Same on opposite side. By deflecting first you take care of the "stretching/binding" problem. Good ole blenderm is good for lots of little repairs on foam.