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Leading edge construction

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Mike Morrow:
Hello,
I purchased some laser cut ribs and plans a while back for a Sakitumi. Since the ribs aren’t cut the same as the plan I’m hoping I can get some advice on how to make a leading edge with these ribs other than a molded one if that’s possible. Because of the way the ribs sit at angles in the wing I can’t just trace their outline for the mold.  I'm open to suggestions.

Thanks,
Mike

Motorman:
I think there are probably different ways to do this. But without fancy wing jigs, here's what I would do.

Cut a slot in the nose of each rib for a leading edge stick, maybe 1/8th x 1/2". Use some blocks to stand the ribs up on the plans to get the right angles. Draw a line on the leading edge stick 1/16th from the edge then put your leading edge stick in the rib slots. Line up the nose of the ribs with the line. This will leave 1/16th sticking out to glue the LE planking to later.

Now make some blocks to go under the leading edge stick and put weights on top to hold the wing level. Now you can put your trailing edge on using blocks and weights to hold it level.

Next take a long ruler and mark each rib for the position of the spar slot. Cut out the slots and glue in the spar. Flip everythig over for the bottom spar.

MM :)   

Mike Morrow:
The ribs and the laser cut spar/shear web have tabs to keep everything level on the board. Just need to figure out a jig of some sort to get the slot in the ribs accurate I suppose. Thanks for the response.

Mike

Dave Rigotti:
Have the ribs re-cut correctly......

Motorman:
Measure the ribs from top to bottom then divide by two in two places, make marks then draw a straight center line.

MM :)

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