Rudder Question

jim_geo · Post by **jim_geo** » Wed Aug 24, 2005 8:21 pm

The rudder counter balance skin on the drawing is clearly shown under the rudder skin. The written instructions lead me to no other conclusion. However, the the counter balance rib is definetly cut in such a way so as to give the rudder skin clearance should a person want to tuck IT under the counter balance skin instead. Has anyone done this? It seems to be a cleaner way to lay up the skins.

captain_john · Post by **captain_john** » Thu Aug 25, 2005 7:00 am

Jim,

I wish I could help you more, but I haven't built the -9 rudder for my RV yet. Hell, I haven't even gotten it yet!

Buuuut, Thermos' site is a good one and this picture looks like it may help you:

See also this page:

http://www.mightyarcher.com/rv7/rudder.html

Hope this helps!

CJ

Post by **Spike** » Thu Aug 25, 2005 7:13 am

Jim, you are correct in that the rudder CB skin goes under the rudder skin. I do not think its a cleaner way however to reverse them. The way that it is drawn up, you have about a 4" section of overlapping seam, which, is where the leading edge of the skin overlaps the CB. On the other hand if you reverse them, the overlapping seam will follow the hole perimeter of the CB skin. Thats a good bit more area that you will have to bevel and blend. Maybe this picture can help out visualize what I am talking about. Its from when I did my 9A rudder.

The other thing that may be a factor is assembly. I don't have my manual in front of me but there is a chance that reversing the two may affect the manor in which you rivet it all together.

-- John