Oratex is like Yoga Pants

[EchoWhiskey]

It does seem expensive. I have a laser gun that I will try and see how it goes.

Great point on the heat sinks!

On self etching primer. I did the wings with a two part. I decided to do the rear spar even though there is no adhesion on it and ran out of it. I picked up SEM 396940 one part today from Carquest, they didn't have two part in stock. Claims excellent adhesion and all that. This is basically autobody grade self-etching primer

BUT,

Lars says there are only certain one-parts that are proven.

Has anyone else used this? Anyone else using the one part? Lars says the Rustoleum stuff doesn't work well, which I had already assumed.

[SheepdogRD]

Lars says the Rustoleum stuff doesn't work well, which I had already assumed.

They told me to use zinc chromate, and NOT to use zinc phosphate. Rust-Oleum is zinc phosphate.

I used PTI's Zinc Chromate Primer, bought from Aircraft Spruce. Don't buy it until you need it -- it has a relatively short shelf life.

[BDA]

I used the spray can 2 part, push the button on bottom of can to mix it

Then spray, seems to be very tough stuff

I posted pics of it a few pages back on this thread.

[SheepdogRD]

I used the spray can 2 part, push the button on bottom of can to mix it.

So that's one use and the can is done? How much time do we get before the can is unusable?

[BucF16]

I used PTI's Zinc Chromate Primer, bought from Aircraft Spruce. Don't buy it until you need it -- it has a relatively short shelf life.[/quote]



This is the only Chromate rattle can that I have found that doesn't have phosphates. I used it on spot treatments that would underlie Oratex and Hot melt glue.

Cheers,
Bruce

[BDA]

I used the spray can 2 part, push the button on bottom of can to mix it.

So that's one use and the can is done? How much time do we get before the can is unusable?

Yes once mixed you have 24 hours to use

I used 3 cans to paint spars and sheet metal on both wings

[EchoWhiskey]

I did the 1" strip test per with the SEM one part,
take a 1 " strip of Fabric, glue to primed aluminum leaving an end off.

Once dried hang 2.6lbs and if it holds its good.

It passed however I do not like how this one part is going on. Seems more like a wash, and subsequent coats dissolve the solids. I may have not waited long enough between coats but it was certainly dry.

I think the hardener makes a big difference in that respect. I will stick with two part.

Most importantly, a sincere Note of Appreciation to those that have shared their trials and errors. Invaluable shared experiences that help those of us just getting started!

[kenryan]

I used XIM polyurethane primer/sealer/bonder. It is one part, water soluble, no bad odors, easy to brush. Lars and I tested it and it performed very well.

xim.jpg

[Clark in AZ]

Thanks everyone for posting your experiences. Keep'em coming!

Clark

[EchoWhiskey]

Started perusing the manual that came with the fabric. Great Manual!

The interrib bracing is interesting. i havent seen a mention of it here so Im guessing noone is using it. But aside from the extra work, is the structural benefit not worth it?

[EchoWhiskey]

Followed everyones lead and started with trim tab. Took forever but like others, i am now a believer. STUFF IS BRILLIANT! It also appears to have some therapeutic value as well. A twofer

[BucF16]

no inter rib lacing for me.

[BDA]

Nice job

Now put it in the freezer
And shrink again

I asked lars about inter rib bracing
His reply (the short version) - the manual was done based on a european plane, if your kit says to use it then use it - if not used in your kit - dont worry about it.

[EchoWhiskey]

Thanks Shawn,

I figured i would have read about it somewhere. A couple things i find are working for me. TIG gloves manage the heat and can help to apply pressure in a pinch when the 3rd hand isnt available. I have been apply glue lightly and cross brushing to remove ridges. Seems to work well.

Looking for advice on covering the gap shown. Im sure there is a preferred approach I just havent found it.

[BucF16]

My Highlander is one of the first to not use finishing tapes with the Oratex process. BUT for the Elevator/ Rudder area I did use tapes. They covered those gaps nicely.

Cheers,
Bruce