Hi there.  I am getting ready to dope another model here and that model has doped on hinges.  I did this a few years ago when I wanted to start using dope. Fast forward to today.  I am looking at my 'over and under' cloth hinges on the elevator and am not happy with them.  I would like to remove the hinges and install sewn figure 8 hinges instead.  The model is a 1/2a White Lightening with only the hinges doped, and the rest is bare balsa(no finishing has started yet).  Is there any chance I could remove them without doing any damage?  If so, what could I use.  Thank you.

Thanks. I went to go right at it after posting then I noticed two things that were to be addressed. Number one was the hinges. Number two was the horizontal stabilizer and elevator unit. One was easy. I had honestly mistaken the hinges on this for another bird that was just painted. These were honestly not too bad and was rather proud of them, so left them. Sorry for this. But number two was a biggie. I had to remove both tail assemblies as the horizontal stab and elevator were out of whack! When viewed from the front, the right side was at least 3/8" higher than the left. So the tail surfaces are now drying after surgery and will be refitted tomorrow evening. Thanks again for the help.

Oh wait, it just gets better! See my other new topic under paint and refinishing.....