Tailwheel Mod

[nigelcharles <NigelCharles@compuserve.com>]

Having received the tailwheel mod recently and read the phrase 'a degree in
gynaecology would be useful at this stage' I know I will be in for a
frustrating time. Although not complete my Europa fuselage has been painted
so cutting into the painted finish is something I dread. Has anyone used a
fly cutter for cutting the access aperture? If so was it successful? Also
any tips on how to get the layups through the hole and into position
without them sticking prematurely to the skin or themselves would be
greatly appreciated. A sizeable 3ply layup on polythene is not the easiest
thing to handle even if the access is reasonable. Through a 5 inch it looks
near impossible.

I received a useful tip (from Donald Kesterton) when it comes to removing
the original tailwheel casting. Using a hot air gun might work eventually
but it heats up more than just the casting and can damage the bulkhead or
aircraft skin. Heat up a 1 inch steel bar (or heavy tube) away from the
aircraft using a propane torch whilst gently warming up the casting with a
hot air gun at the same time. Insert the bar into the casting from below.
Hold it in position for about 5 to 10 minutes and then use it as a lever to
prise the casting off the bulkhead as the Redux softens. As it is steel the
lower end of the bar will not get too hot if just the top part is heated.

Nigel Charles