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Thread: Rib stitching problem

  1. #1
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    Default Rib stitching problem

    I think I am about ready to cover the wings and now I have a question about rib stitching. The Kitfox construction manual calls for structural adhesive between the fuel tank and the number 1 and number 3 ribs. With the adhesive in place, how do I Rib stitch the fabric to the number 3 rib?

    Did I misunderstand the instructions in the manual?

    What do you recommend I do?

    Steve

  2. #2
    Senior Member efwd's Avatar
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    Default Re: Rib stitching problem

    People are just drilling holes through that adhesive at the edge of the rib. In my case, I used Oratex and Im relying on the strength of the glue so I did not stitch there. I did stitch the short segment behind the aft spar. They say that stitching is not necessary with any of the products we use since the ribs are 1" wide but most everyone is stitching their ribs. I know of nobody that stitched the very end rib so everyone must be trusting the adhesive integrity out there. Yes, at the tip, it is also sandwiched under the Wing tip fiberglass as well.
    Eddie Forward
    Flying
    SS7, 912iS, Garmin G3X

  3. #3
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    Default Re: Rib stitching problem

    Great, thanks for the info. I thought I had misread the instructions.

    Steve

  4. #4
    Senior Member efwd's Avatar
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    Default Re: Rib stitching problem

    Also, many people make note of the spacers that were installed underneath the tank before they cover, so that they are able to stitch that false rib as well
    Eddie Forward
    Flying
    SS7, 912iS, Garmin G3X

  5. #5
    Senior Member aviator79's Avatar
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    Default Re: Rib stitching problem

    Quote Originally Posted by efwd View Post
    Also, many people make note of the spacers that were installed underneath the tank before they cover, so that they are able to stitch that false rib as well
    I just drilled holes through the fuel tank. Worked great!
    --Brian
    Flying - S7SS

  6. #6
    Senior Member aviator79's Avatar
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    Default Re: Rib stitching problem

    (disclaimer: the above post is a joke. Please don't drill holes in your fuel tank.)
    --Brian
    Flying - S7SS

  7. #7
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    Default Re: Rib stitching problem

    So, holes drilled through the tank. Do I run the stitching outboard of Rib three, then through the tank, and then up on the inboard side on rib one?








  8. #8
    Senior Member Esser's Avatar
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    Default Re: Rib stitching problem

    I didn't use hysol between the tank and rib. I figured the wooden spacers were stiff enough.
    ------------------
    Josh Esser
    Flying SS7
    Rotax 914iS
    AirMaster Prop

    Edmonton, AB, CWL3

  9. #9
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    Default Re: Rib stitching problem

    Quote Originally Posted by Flyboy66 View Post
    So, holes drilled through the tank. Do I run the stitching outboard of Rib three, then through the tank, and then up on the inboard side on rib one?







    Yes .....
    David
    SS7 Builder

  10. #10
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    Default Re: Rib stitching problem

    Perfect! Next, addressing the potential fuel leak.

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