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Building Tips and technical articles. => Building techniques => Topic started by: Dennis Toth on January 11, 2014, 10:52:57 AM

Title: Hinge line reinforcement
Post by: Dennis Toth on January 11, 2014, 10:52:57 AM
Guys,
I was doing a quick look over on my EL Diabo ship and found the hinge near the tail horn was staring to fail. It is a sewn fabric hinge that works great but it is allowing the elevator to flex before applying control. Apart from redoing the whole elevator/stab, which I don't have time for, I want to reinforce the hinge in the center. I think using the figure eight sew approach would work.

Question is what type of thread to use? Anyone use this type of hinge approach?

Best,     DennisT
Title: Re: Hinge line reinforcement
Post by: RknRusty on January 11, 2014, 11:17:23 AM
I've been sewing the elevators on my most recent builds with Dacron flying line. I noticed it had stretched a little on the Shoestring, so next time I'll pull off as much line as I think I need and give it a good pull to pre-stretch it. None of my others have had any stretch though. Maybe it was a funny roll. I've tried several different stitching patterns.

Rusty
Title: Re: Hinge line reinforcement
Post by: Phil Krankowski on January 11, 2014, 03:00:03 PM
Unwaxed dental floss and spectra fish line are my two choices for stitched hinges.

Nylon thread might be a good choice too.

I have used poly-cotton thread and it disintegrates pretty quick, but in a pinch I won't hesitate to use it again even knowing that it only lasts a few months.

Phil
Title: Re: Hinge line reinforcement
Post by: john e. holliday on January 11, 2014, 06:38:15 PM
I have been using Kevlar thread that MBS Model Supply has or did have.  Don't know if he still has it or not. 
Title: Re: Hinge line reinforcement
Post by: 55chevr on January 11, 2014, 07:50:32 PM
I have used dacron fishing line ...

Joe
Title: Re: Hinge line reinforcement
Post by: RknRusty on January 11, 2014, 10:58:29 PM
I've been told that the carpet thread some people use is also Dacron. Don't know that for a fact though. I like the performance I've gotten with Dacron. No fraying at all, and I fly the everlivin' crap out of mine, wild high speed freestyle stunt. I rip them round pretty rough, but don't crash much.
Rusty
Title: Re: Hinge line reinforcement
Post by: Bill Little on January 12, 2014, 09:22:37 AM
I like the kevlar thread Doc mentions.  Also, dacron 1/2A flying line and dental floss.

Big Bear