Scott's RV-14 Build

Slow Going At Times

I had hoped to make more progress today but the kit had other plans. Some days much is accomplished and other days, like today, I get bogged down and stymied doing problem solving. The plans will tell you a deceptively simple, "rivet this part to that part...." but the builder is left to figure out how and sometimes the solution is neither easy or obvious, at least for a first time aircraft builder. Hours are spent on internet forums reading how others have done it. Compounding the problem is trying to figure out how to then properly orient and secure flimsy and awkward shaped structures for solo riveting. The initial spar and control horn riveting went smooth enough but then I had to commit to several nonstop steps using Pro-Seal. This is noxious fuel tank sealant with a 2 hour pot life that's also is used as an adhesive, to bond the internal ribs and trailing edge in place, then rivet the second skin on, then lay the tab flat with a weighted board over it while the Pro-Seal cures over several days. I clecoed it all together to rehearse the steps and look for issues, which there were. Rivet access along the spar was difficult with the hinge in place. I had to modify a squeezer yoke for that. Securing the tab for riveting will require a simple jig to hold it. Mixing the 2 part Pro-Seal and applying it correctly had challenges too. I think I've addressed all the issues and hopefully more progress in the next couple of days.

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