Model Tech Sukhoi SU-31 Assembly Instructions Manual page 9

Step 1: aliGninG the horiZontal StaBiliZer
❑ Remove the elevator from the stabilizer and set it aside for now.
❑ Carefully measure and draw a centerline mark on the top of the stabilizer
at the trailing edge.
❑ Slide the stabilizer into the fuselage and center it at only the trailing edge
by carefully centering the mark you drew on the stabilizer with the center
of the stabilizer mounting slot. Also, make sure that the stabilizer is pushed
forward as far as possible.
❑ When satisfied that the trailing edge of the stabilizer is centered, hold
only the trailing edge in place, using a T-Pin.
IMPORTANT The front of the stabilizer should be able to pivot from side
to side and the back should stay firmly in place and aligned. The trailing
edge should not be allowed to move from side to side.
❑ Measure the distance between the tips of the stabilizer and the tips of
the wing. Pivot the front of the stabilizer until both of these measurements
are equal.
☞
When both of these measurements are equal, you're assured that the
stabilizer is square to the wing.
❑ When the stabilizer is square to the wing, use a T-Pin to hold the front of
the stabilizer firmly in place and aligned.
❑ Look from the front of the airplane at both the wing and the stabilizer.
When aligned properly, the stabilizer should be parallel to the wing.
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