Nylon hinges

[Mikec88]

So I'm getting a freewing b17 and would like to install nylon hinges would like to ask for guidance on installing procedures

[WintrSol]

First, if that model comes with foam hinges, I use a very sharp modeling knife to get as smooth and straight a cut as possible, close to the wing, stab, or elevator. Then, I carefully mark the line for the cut with an extra-fine felt tip, carefully centered and as true to the line of the wing as possible, and a bit longer than the width of the hinge. Using a #10 blade, I slide the curved edge along that line to get a straight cut, then work the blade into the foam, again, as straight into it as possible. Dry fit the hinges, so that the joint is just proud of the surface, then hold the mating control in its original position and mark where the ends of the hinges lie. Draw the cut line as before, and cut. I make a small notch for the hinge to fit, so the edge of the control will just touch the wing, but still allow free movement, while dry fit, of course. Next comes gluing; I start with whichever edge will fit flat against a table, e.g., if the control has extensions, like an elevator or rudder with a counter-balance, it won't fit flat, but the mating stab should; if the ailerons fit into notches in the wing, then start with them. Before applying glue, I put a small drop on the hinge, then dab excess away with a paper towel, to keep glue from entering the hinge. I then glue and insert all hinges part way, then push the hinges against a straight surface (I use angle iron), until the hinges are all the way to where you want them; this ensures the hinges lines are lined up pretty well, so they won't bind. If there is squeeze-out, I use a knife point, or what ever is handy to scrape it away, taking care not to force it into the hinge. Once one side is cured, you can just glue and insert the other side into the mate. Finally, I use round toothpicks to make sure the hinge won't pull out; a pin vise and 1/16" drill helps here. Just eyeball the center of the hinge tab and carefully drill into the foam and tab, feeling for when the drill breaks through. The put glue on one end of a toothpick and push it in until it stops. Once cured, trim away the bits of toothpick with flush cut cutters, or what have you. One toothpick does both hinge tabs, so a little bottle from the store will last a long while.

OK, this was longer than I expected, but it takes longer to read than to do. Good luck!

[dkalwishky]

I've been flying my FW B-17 for a year now and haven't seen a need to put in nylon hinges.

[doctormike]

I use a toothpick to, carefully, put 3n1 oil in the hinges. This will keep the glue from locking up your hinges if you get any on them.:Cool:Doc

[WintrSol]

I use a toothpick to, carefully, put 3n1 oil in the hinges. This will keep the glue from locking up your hinges if you get any on them.:Cool:Doc

I forgot to type 'of oil' after 'a small drop'; I guess it was getting too long, and I missed that point.:wacky

[Dewey H Lee]

At this time and age i attribute that to CRS
;)

[WintrSol]

Yeah, my short-term memory is getting terrible, but it's not as bad as my short-term memory.:Confused:

[doctormike]

I didn't mean to repeat what you said...What was it you said?:Confused:Doc

[Mikec88]

Thank you wintrsol for that and thank you everyone else for the posts