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RV-7 Construction Log
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Date:  3-9-2012
Number of Hours:  5.00
Manual Reference:  p 6-12
Brief Description:  Trim Tab and Left Elevator

I started out by massaging the closeout tabs on the left elevator and trim tab a bit more so I could get the trim tab properly located in the elevator cutout for fitting the hinge. I had to trim about 1/16" inch off the upper tab on the elevator opening to prevent it from protruding below the bottom side of the skin. I then clecoed the skeleton into the skin to properly set the trailing edge angle, and drilled the holes for the blind rivets for the closeout tabs.

A test fit of the trim tab shows that the gap between the tab and elevator is around 3/16 to 1/4", a bit wider than I'd like, but there's not really anything I can do about it now. If it looks really bad after assembly, I'll reskin the elevator and/or build a new trim tab. At least I'll have had the practice.

I fitted and drilled the aft half of the hinge to the trim tab and marked the outboard edge for later trimming. I marked the rivet line on the hinge 3/16" from the edge so the holes would have minimum edge distance in the locations between the barrels. I taped the trim tab with hinge in place into the elevator opening, and this seems to be a good location. While the trim tab was still assembled, I drilled the rivet holes for the closeout tabs on both ends.

I then disassembled the tab and deburred all holes and edges. After countersinking the trim tab spar, I masked, scrubbed with Dawn and Scotchbrite, solvent wiped, and primed the five trim tab parts. I'll let the primer cure for at least a couple of days before dimpling and riveting. I can rivet the left elevator in the meantime.
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Trim tab hinge drilled to trim tab skin and spar; inboard end marked for trimming.

Trim tab hinge drilled to trim tab skin and spar; inboard end marked for trimming.

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Countersinking the trim tab spar.

Countersinking the trim tab spar.

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Priming complete. I'll let it cure for at least a couple of days before dimpling and riveting.

Priming complete. I'll let it cure for at least a couple of days before dimpling and riveting.

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