Glad it helped - not my innovation, just passing along what I've learned from others. Nice-looking wing!

Cheers,

Mike

Hi Mike,

Thank you so much! Your picture explains it all!  Makes me wish I'd thought of that a couple of days ago.  Excellent and simple solution.  I'm gonna be starting the build of wing #2 over the weekend.  When I've finished I'll let you know how I make out.

I have to pick up one of my granddaughters from school and take her to the library, so I've got to run.  Again, thanks for the excellent advice.  Greatly appreciated.  By the way, GREAT picture.

Paul

METHODS FOR SHAPING WING LEADING EDGE WITHOUT DISTORTING THE AIRFOIL SHAPE OF WING RIBS?

Greetings from Paul in Rockwall TX,

Can any member assist me in describing the best method of shaping the leading edges of wings without distorting the airfoil shape of the wing ribs?

About 6 years ago I purchased a Schlueter Pacific Ace 30.  Rather than destroying the kit while attempting to make the transition from building with big sticks (.60 - .90 R/C aircraft) to building with little sticks, I decided to gain some experience by first scratch-building several models using the Pacific Ace plans.  I started the construction but had to place it on hold because my “building room” was transformed into a “toy room” while my wife and I provided daycare for our five grandchildren.  Now that the youngest has started school and not here every day, I have resurrected the project and have gained a great appreciation for the skill and diligence required to build these terrific, fragile, rubber-powered free-flight aircraft.

So far, I’ve completed four fuselages and tail feathers; and have just completed one wing.  I’ve made many mistakes in the process (over sanding, crunching longerons, gluing my fingers to the parts, etc.), but have gained much experience during the process.  I’m extremely grateful for all the helpful hints and techniques posted in the Stick and Tissue threads, which I browse regularly.  However, in my searches through the Forum, I have failed to locate a thread that discusses the best methods of shaping the wing leading edges without distorting the integrity of the airfoil shape of the wing ribs.  While shaping the leading edge of the Pacific Ace wing with a sanding stick and sanding bar, I noticed that I was also inadvertently sanding away portions of the airfoil shaped ribs.  Any techniques, suggestions or hints that any forum member can offer to assist me in avoiding this problem will be greatly appreciated.  There is probably a better way than holding the wing between my knees and using the shoeshine method to shape the wing leading edge.

Many thanks,

Paul
Rockwall, TX

Good judgment comes from experience.  Experience comes from poor judgment.