Section 7: Hinging The Vertical & Horizontal Stabilizers - Hangar 9 Piper Cherokee Instruction Manual

Section 7: Hinging the Vertical
& Horizontal Stabilizers
Parts Needed
• Fuselage
• Horizontal stabilizer
• Vertical stabilizer
Step 1. Carefully remove the rudder from the vertical stabilizer
by pulling straight out with even pressure.
Step 2. Remove the two hinges from the rudder. Flex the hinges
accordingly so they can move freely.
Step 3. Mix a small amount of 30-minute epoxy. Using either a
mixing stick or scrap of wood, sparingly apply the epoxy inside
each hinge slot on the rudder. Additionally, apply a small
amount of epoxy to the top and bottom one-half of each hinge.
Insert the hinges into the rudder until the hinge line is even with
the leading edge of the rudder.
Note: It sometimes helps to roughen the hinge surface with
a sanding stick so the epoxy will have a better grip.
Step 4. Apply epoxy to the remaining half of each hinge and
into the hinge slots in the vertical stabilizer as well. Replace the
rudder into the vertical stabilizer.
Tools and Adhesives Needed
• 30-minute epoxy
• Mixing stick
• Paper towels
• Rubbing alcohol
Step 5. Carefully wipe away the excess epoxy using a paper
towel and rubbing alcohol.
Step 6. Repeat this procedure to install the elevator to the
horizontal stabilizer. Allow the epoxy to cure completely before
proceeding.
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