Oratex Fabric Covering

[924549]

Has anyone used Oratex covering. I would like to know your thoughts on how user friendly it is and how it stands up to the environment pilots put there planes through. Thanks

Pieter

[jtpitkin06]

Oratex has been discussed at length. Do a search for the many replies on the product.
John

[colospace]

Pieter,
I can't speak to how well it holds up except to say it is doing just fine the last several months in my garage
As to user friendliness, I will first preface my comments by noting that my covering experience consists of a SportAir Polyfiber workshop, hours spent viewing Stewart Systems DVDs and then actually covering my Kitfox with Oratex. My thoughts are that as far as the actual covering process, using the PolyFiber process would have been a problem as it only takes a little MEK to give me a killer headache and I am also working in an attached garage (no way I would have kept the fumes out of my house). Also I note that you need to typically work fast when gluing and I tend toward a slower pace (aka Turtle Build).
I think the Stewart System would have worked well for me and been somewhat easier as far as just getting the fabric on.
BUT, the big reason for me in going with the Oratex is that I do not have to paint it and thus do not need to build a paint booth in my garage and struggle to get adequate lighting on the work. The finish is certainly not a slick, glossy look, but I think it looks just fine on a fun/utilitarian aircraft like the Kitfox. I plan to use Stewart Systems paint on my cowl, tips, etc. with a flattener, and they are working on a color match now. I figure I can paint these smaller parts outdoors under a screened canopy.
Bottom line: While pricey, the Oratex was pretty easy to use, allowed me to work at my pace without stinking up my house AND avoid a lot of painting hassle.

[Peteohms]

I recently covered the elevator on my 25 year old Kitfox III. I will tell you, that it was easy for me because I've covered dozens of model airplane's with similar covering. If you read the instructions until you understand and don't try to substitute past experience with other covering systems, you shouldn't have too many problems. I may eventually cover my whole plane with Oratex.

[JBAZ]

Also lots of new threads and info out there with more people trying it....

Current thread on Oratex on EAA forums FYI....


JB
KIFP

1969 Superhawk 4 sale on TAP

[bumsteer]

For those of you who have covered or are using Oratex, did you spring for the quite expensive digital heat gun and iron or were you able to find less expensive alternatives? Been looking around. Kobalt (Lowes) has a digital gun for about $70. Just curious what you have done. Thanks in advance.

Rick