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A string is place from a temporary fitting at the rear of the VS and measured equally from a centre point.
The string is also attached to a forward centre point on the fuselage. When both strings are equally distanced from the VS it's deemed centralised!
This shows the port side of the VS alignment procedure
Using the method as per the plans, two strings are attached to a common centre point on the fuselage from a fixed rule attached to the rear of the VS, then when both sides read equally, the VS is deemed centralised.
Result of the 'bucking' was good. The 'longer rivet' near the bracket was later replaced.
The 'chalkey' marks along the plastic covering is very light corrosion,it can be removed easily with some scotchbright etc.
Use of the bucking bar provided much better results than using the pneumatic squeezer as there are several brackets that the 'set's' just don't sit perfectly upon.
Notice that the VS forward ribs are riveted and also the rudder skin has not yet been closed nor leading edge bent to final shape.
Forward spar riveted to ribs and rear spar assembly.
Rear Spar and reinforcement plate riveted. Note the flush rivets, these are required when mating the VS to the HS/Fuselage. Freshly primed with Sikkens wash primer CF.
Today, was a massive paint job! 70 parts, large and small managed to get primed in no small part thanks to Jeremy the master sprayer. Its a messy and at times an uncomfortable experience. Pictures to follow shortly.
