[Bob Kuczewski]

The next report will take me back to the beginning of the covering process with the correct material which I ordered from Spencer Aircraft Supply in Washington.....another ~$400 receipt.

Ouch!!   

Thanks for all the "lessons learned" on this project. I'm sure it will be a big help to anyone who attempts a similar project. But even for those of us who don't plan to build our own, it gives us an appreciation of all the work that goes into a project like this!!

Keep up the good work John!!!

[Merlin]

Yeah, this is a great project, and I'm a bit envious! A real classic bonfide 70's glider.

I'm sure many homebuilts can be a black hole of expenses, but this covering setback has to be relatively minor.

First flight will be nerve-racking no doubt.

[Bob Kuczewski]

First flight will be nerve-racking no doubt.

I think we should have a first flight 70's throwback party for its inaugural hops.   

[jcoyier]

All those following this should re-read post #8 (which I edited) in which you will notice I have since learned I was "thinking wrong" (as an old friend of mine used to tell me) on the covering "mistake". RTFM!!! (read the *@!***%! manual). If in doubt, re-read the plans.
John

[Merlin]

So... you need to use pre-shrunk after all? Are you satisfied with the shrink you're getting with the iron? Sounds like you haven't been able to find somebody who actually completed one of these.

[jcoyier]

Merlin,
Yes, pre-shrunk is what they used. I have been searching through a Yahoo Group for Easy Risers and found some useful info, especially notes from Taras re: his experience covering the Icarus V. Dress lining material or polyester sheathing is the material that was used. Also, it sounds like temperatures in excess of what is used on aircraft polyester were used to get a reasonable job covering using fabric store polyester (sheathing). I haven't yet experimented with a calibrated iron to see how hot I can go and what will happen at the extreme. I have found a few people that have covered them but it's been 30 years since they did it that the little tips and tricks are lost in time. I'm still looking though.

[Bill Cummings]

With the pre-shrunk troubles is about where I would have blown my brains out.
YOU DA MAN!

[jcoyier]

That whole discovery was such a let down......I've been working on the trailer since that happened.....lost some motivation on the project over it for sure!

[Merlin]

You mention the shrinkable cloth is used on "more constrained" airframes, which I take to mean welded steel tubing, etc. Have you checked with Mike Sandlin of "Airchair" fame? That guy has covered an incredible variety of real light designs. http://m-sandlin.info/

[jcoyier]

Merlin,
Yes, by constrained I meant stiff either by heavier materials or more internal struts, gussets, etc. No, I haven't come across the Air Chair but am on it now!
Thanks