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4. In this step I will outline the procedure we use to install the hinges. There are several
ways to do this and several adhesives you can use. We will describe the way we do it, as
this method has proven itself over many years of model building. If you are new to this
type of hinging process then I recommend that you install a single hinge first just to
acquaint yourself with this method.
Before starting the process get a few items together that will aid you as you proceed. You
will need the following items: 30 minute epoxy (we recommend Pacer Z-Poxy), a scrap
piece of pushrod or 1/8" dowel, paper towels and denatured alcohol. Locate 4 hinges per
elevator half. You will need to cut 2 hinges just beyond the second knuckle to clear the
fiberglass tube socket in the stabilizer. Insert the carbon fiber wing tube into the socket
while testing for proper hinge length to avoid damaging the fiberglass sleeve. Mix a
generous batch of 30 minute epoxy. Use the pushrod or dowel to thoroughly coat and fill
the hinge hole with epoxy, then coat the hinge with epoxy. Push the hinge into its hole until
the joint is about a ¼" from its final position and use a paper towel to remove the excess
epoxy that has been forced from the hole. Push the hinge the rest of the way in and make
sure the hinge pin is centered in the hinge line. Use some denatured alcohol and a paper
towel to remove all excess epoxy, especially on the hinge pin. When you are satisfied with
the result set the surface aside to dry. Position the drying piece so that any excess epoxy
will pool around the rear of the hinge. When you are comfortable with this process you
should be able to do one side of a surface per batch of epoxy. Glue all hinges into the
stabilizer first. After the glue has set trial fit the elevator to the stab and adjust if
necessary. There should be as little gap as possible between the stab and elevator. When
satisfied with the fit remove the elevator and repeat the gluing process outlined above. Be
sure to wipe away all excess epoxy! Set aside to dry. Repeat this process for the other
stab/elevator half. Please see the following series of pictures that will aid in visualizing
this process.
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