2.4.0 Wingtip Trimming

The wingtips get marked, using the template, before being cut out. I used a die grinder with a cutoff blade to make a smooth cut through the fiberglass. I used both a 4” and 2” cutoff wheel in order to get the curve right.

Marking Wingtips in Preparation for Winglet Attachment

Using a supplied template, the right wingtip is marked in preparation for trimming. Yes, that whole curved section needs to be removed!

And here’s a photo of the completed cut on the right wing. It actually came out pretty good. With a bit of sanding, the inside surface came out nice and smooth.

Wingtip Trimming Complete

The big wingtip cut is complete. This cut is a bit scary because if it's wrong there are problems! You'll notice I also had to cut part of the spar end off.

And here’s another view of the completed cut.

Wingtip Trimming - Another View

Here's another view of the trimmed wingtip. The next step is to remove a wad of foam core for the installation of the rudder horn pre-molded gap.

A section of foam around the trailing edge of the wing needs to be removed for the insertion of the pre-molded rudder horn insert. Laying on top of the wing is the actual insert. You can see the area of foam I removed to make room for this insert.

Rudder Horn Insert (1)

This factory-made insert creates a space for the rudder horn mechanicals.

Here’s another view of the area of foam removed for the rudder horn insert.

Rudder Horn Insert - View 2 (1)

Another view showing where the foam needed to be dug out in preparation for the fiberglass insert.

The next step is attaching the winglets to the wing. That’s fairly complex, as you can see here on the next page.

ui© John Trautschold 2018