Leading edge rib stiffener

MikeB · Post by **MikeB** » Tue Jul 18, 2006 19:54

On my basket case L16, I've just discovered that the left leading edge rib stiffener (part number 5-173L) is missing. It's a "T" shaped piece about 15 feet long that sits under the leading edge and holds the ribs in place. The right one is at least there and fairly useable, but I'd probably replace both if I had a source. Tried WAG today, but they only carry the one for the 7EC which is 'L" shaped (apparently). UNIVAR shows it as a 5-173B which is most likely a blank (read: you fit) unit. Can't imagine how they'd ship it as each is about 15 feet long. I could probably manufacture one if necessary, but......

Appreciate any suggestions.

BTW: if you look at your new WAG book (July & inside front cover) they show new spars for $546 and $492. However, if you open the catalog to page 92, spars are still $666 and $646.....guess it was a misprint

.

Thanks,

Mike

Paul Agaliotis · Post by **Paul Agaliotis** » Tue Jul 18, 2006 20:03

Mike,
Todd,s Aeronca site has a proceedure for making the T section from two L sections.
Paul

MikeB · Post by **MikeB** » Tue Jul 18, 2006 21:35

Thanks Paul. I'll check it out.

Mike

Dennis · Post by **Dennis** » Tue Jul 18, 2006 22:07

Mike, I am at the point of needing the stiffener for my wings. The leading edges are about ready to go on, after Oshkosh of course. Although I like the "two Ls" approach, I have access to a large break. I intend to, first, breaking the metal in the center. Using a router or skill saw, cut a track in my rebuild table the proper depth, about 1/4 inch. Lay the bent piece in the track and work the edges over on each side. Then work flat with a block of wood. Don't know if it will work but what the heck.

By the way, one wing had the appropriate stiffener but beat up. The other wing had one made out of STEEL sheet metal!

Dennis

MikeB · Post by **MikeB** » Wed Jul 19, 2006 08:41

As I said, UNIVAR lists them by part number but apparently as a blank. I'm guessing you have to cut your own notches, which isn't really a problem.

I'm off to Oshkosh next week also, probably Tuesday. Have company coming in from Montana for a wedding so kind of screws up my Oshkosh time this year.

Talked to Mike Utley at WAG yesterday. They had someone who could build the "T" shaped edge by an extrusion method, but they had to commit for 10,000 feet and he felt it wouldn't be cost effective.

It's not high on my list of priorities for things to do right now, but one more problem to be solved down the road.