Wing Fix Suggestion

[lsaguy]

First the caveats. I am neither builder nor owner of a JA aircraft. I'm a LSARM and Rotax mechanic who got called upon to help first with engine troubles, then with the gig list from the A & P who did the annual. One of them was for the displacement of both ends of the root rib on both wings that indicated the Hysol bond had failed. I spent the better part of two days grinding out the old Hysol and rebonding the ribs so I had a lot of time to examine the structure. Based upon that, I'd like to offer a suggestion to JA builders.
Put an aluminum clip on the outboard side of either end of the root rib to account for the spanwise shear load imposed by the covering fabric so there is a mechanical attachment as well as a chemical one. I realize this may take some doing on the rear spar because of the close quarters to the fuel tank but it looked like a small clip could be attached if care was used.
Should you find yourself in the same position as my friend, let me share one more tip. Fully cured Hysol 9460 dulls hi speed steel cutters in less than a minute. Fortunately Dremel has a nice little carbide, ball nosed cutter that is up to the task. Yes, they cost more, but they cut faster and keep an edge.
Hope this helps.

Rick

[Bay State Flatlander]

I am not there yet on my build but the manual calls for wood blocks to be wedged between the root rib and tank to address bowing of the rib when covering. Is there enough space to put two more blocks at the leading and trailing edges?

Has anyone else seen the separation at hysol to rib either at the root or elsewhere?
Thanks

[FlyerChief]

Hi Rick,

I would be interested to know whether this was a quick-build wing from the factory or a wing assembled from parts by the builder and also how long ago this aircraft was originally built.

Thanks,
Dan

[danerazz]

I too am kind of curious about the prep work on the spar tube.