Week 3: Elevator

This week I completed the elevator assembly. I began attaching the skins to the previously finished frame. The spacing between supports is a little wide and that is allowing the skin to not be as tight as I would like, but after a some adjustment and some research I decided it is acceptable. There were quite a few reports of similar issues with RV builders and their reports is that Vans indicated it was not an issue.

To continue with the elevator assembly I match drilled holes in the fiberglass tips, then removed them to countersink the holes for the flush rivets on the leading edge side. The skin extension was also removed to dimple the holes for the flush rivets.

Once all the prep work was done, I temporarily attached the elevator to the horizontal stabilizer to check the fit and alignment per the instructions. Both ends lined up well and it was exciting to see the two parts fit together. With the two parts aligned, I began riveting the top of the elevator. When that side was done I removed it from the horizontal stabilizer so I could flip it over and rivet the other side.

When all the riveting was done I reattached the elevator to the horizontal stabilizer for a final alignment check. Everything still lined up great. The last step was to attach the counter weights to the control arm. I still have to attach the elevator trim tab, but I need to safety wire the hinge first and will need to shorten a bunch of rivets. I will work on that while prepping vertical stabilizer parts.