SERVICE MANUAL & ICA
WIPLINE 3730 & 3900 FLOATS
Page 12
Revision K
P/N 1002551
2.1 GENERAL
The float structure is manufactured entirely of 6061-T6 corrosion resistant aluminum sheet and extrusions. Skins
on the inside are primed with a 3M SCOTCHWELD primer after being cleaned and acid-etched. Exterior surfaces
are cleaned and alodined. Surfaces are then primed with an epoxy-based primer and finished with enamel color
paint.
2.2 HARD LANDING AND DAMAGE INVESTIGATION
After a thorough cleaning of the suspected damaged area, all structural parts should be carefully examined to
determine the extent of damage. Frequently the force causing the initial damage is transmitted from one member
to the next causing strains and distortions. Abnormal stresses incurred by shock or impact forces on a rib,
bulkhead or similar structure may be transmitted to the extremity of the structural member, resulting in secondary
damage, such as sheared or stretched rivets, elongated bolt holes or canned skins or bulkheads. Points of
attachment should be examined carefully for distortion and security of fastenings in the primary and secondary
damaged areas at locations beyond the local damage. Inspect aircraft skins in area of float fitting attach for sign of
bending, or any other signs of damage.
2.3 CLEANING
The entire outside of the float should be kept clean by washing with soap and water. Special care should be taken
to remove engine exhaust trail, water-line marks and barnacle type deposits. After saltwater operation, washing
with fresh water should be done daily with special attention to hard to reach places such as seams, wheel wells,
areas underneath strut covers etc. Float interior should be flushed if evidence of saltwater in compartments is
noted. The float interior should be flushed if salt water enters the compartments; it’s easy to tell by the smell inside
the float lockers. At night or when the floatplane is in storage, the inspection and/or baggage covers should be
opened so the interior has a chance to dry out.
THE ABOVE CLEANING TECHNIQUES ARE VITAL
FOR KEEPING CORROSION TO A MINIMUM. SALTWATER
OPERATIONS ARE STRONGLY LINKED TO
CORROSION AND MUST BE ADDRESSED PROACTIVELY.
2.4 SEALING
The float hull has eight sealed compartments. Each compartment is equipped with a pump-out cup and inspection
cover. These compartments must be pumped out before flight and after prolonged periods of sitting in water. Each
compartment is individually sealed, as is wheel well halves and nose box. Water from one should not contaminate
the other. If leaks are found, check by filling only one compartment at a time, water will appear on outside of
hull, in adjacent compartment, nose box or wheel well. Float hull must also be inspected for leaks from damage
and sealed around nose box, nose box access cover, spreader bar, fairings, water rudder boot, baggage and
inspection covers. Refer to Products List for recommended sealants and caulk.
Note: Special attention should be taken on nose box sealant inspection. See Wipaire Service Letter 224
on the Wipaire website for details.
