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Thread: When to varnish the wing ribs?

  1. #1
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    Default When to varnish the wing ribs?

    I'm psyched up to varnish my wing ribs, but when?

    p.36 says to sand and varnish all (right after false ribs install)

    p.40 says to varnish inside of ribs 1 and 3 before installing the tanks

    p.74 says to varnish them all after installing the flaperon brackets


    That's 6 coats

    I'm inclined to do the flap brackets, varnish all the ribs, then glue in the tanks last (none of the above)

  2. #2
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    Default Re: When to varnish the wing ribs?

    I'd be concerned with the hysol not adhering adequately to the ribs & false ribs.
    Paul Zimmermann
    LSRM-A
    Garland, Texas

  3. #3
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    Default Re: When to varnish the wing ribs?

    where exactly? I agree that the flaperon brackets should be done before varnish if thats what you are referring to.

    I have the same thought which is why I think doing the varnishing last is the best plan. I get the note to do the inside of 1 and 3 before gluing in the tank but why not do the tank last?

  4. #4
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    Default Re: When to varnish the wing ribs?

    From my experience building my SS7, install the ribs onto the spars with the drag/antidrag braces installed , then varnish all the ribs. The more coats, the more protection.

    Dick B

  5. #5
    Senior Member Esser's Avatar
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    Default Re: When to varnish the wing ribs?

    My $.02 Wait until you are about to cover before varnishing or you end up whipping up a few extra batches. However, if you live in a humid climate I would be inclined to do it sooner as the false ribs may warp. Anything with a flange/web on it should resist warping....

  6. #6
    Senior Member jiott's Avatar
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    Default Re: When to varnish the wing ribs?

    I agree with Dick B, varnish after all ribs and false ribs are installed, before any flaperon brackets. This allows the hysol to bond to bare wood (much better bond than to varnish) and then totally seals up the bare wood for moisture and warping protection. Its "only" 3 coats required, and believe me its no fun; the epoxy varnish fumes are terrible. IMHO it was the worst part of the whole build.
    Jim Ott
    Portland, OR
    Kitfox SS7 flying
    Rotax 912ULS

  7. #7
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    Default Re: When to varnish the wing ribs?

    but the flaperon brackets are also bonded to the ribs...

    shouldn't i bond the brackets to bare wood?

  8. #8
    Senior Member Norm's Avatar
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    Default Re: When to varnish the wing ribs?

    On a recover should the wings be varnished again and what is the best product to use.
    Norm

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