After completing the right elevator and getting familiar with the elevator parts Vans says to
build the left elevator next since it is more complex. Fine. Even though confidence is good,
the left elevator will test your skills. Figure on spending about 3 times the time on working on
this baby especially if you are using the electric elevator trim not mention additional time spent
building and installing the trim tab.
NICE.....
I spent a little more time on this area on the left elevator since I noticed the right elevator
as not quite as smooth. It is all about making the rib flanges perfectly square since you are
layering 3 pieces here.
The lead counter balance weights should be drilled using a lubricant such as Boelube and
forming the radius here is best done by using a 1/4" drill bit in the corner and then cutting
towards it from both directions with the band saw.
I noticed after working with the pieces that the stiffeners had created dents in the skin at
each stiffener.....
NOT HAPPY! This skin is flimsy during construction and should be handled with care!
Don't know where this came from on the top side of the trim tab. Again... NOT HAPPY!
I have to keep telling myself. Quit worrying about small dents. This is my first plane and I
plan on a white and silver paint scheme. Most all small imperfections will not ever be seen.
I trimmed the hinge that attaches to the trim tab to fit nicely. However the one that
attaches to the elevators 606 spar is a bit longer.
Inboard end of the trim tab.
Outboard end of the trim tab.
After reinstalling the pin and positioning the hinge to the elevators 606 and skin as you can
see I had plenty hinge here but...
This end didn't reach the last rivet. Oops. Time to order a new hinge.
