Section 6: Vertical Stabilizer (Fin) Installation
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Step 5
Remove the vertical stabilizer. Using a sharp hobby knife
and straightedge, carefully cut away the covering on the
vertical fin and fuselage approximately 1/16" inside the
lines marked in Step 4.
Caution
: It’s very important that you do not
press hard enough to cut into the wood
structure, as doing so could weaken the
vertical stabilizer.
Step 6
Mix approximately 1/4 ounce of 30-minute epoxy and
apply it to the vertical stabilizer where it comes into
contact with the fuselage. Also apply epoxy to the
base of the vertical stabilizer where it comes in contact
with the fuselage.
Important
: It is essential the vertical
stabilizer base be epoxied to the inside the
fuselage to provide adequate strength. Be
sure to use plenty of epoxy!
Step 7
Insert the fin into the fuselage and wipe away any
excess epoxy using a paper towel and rubbing alcohol.
Step 8
Using a 90-degree triangle, make sure the fin is
perpendicular to the horizontal stabilizer. Use
masking tape to hold the vertical stabilizer in place
until the epoxy cures.