Top Flite TOPA0145 - Manual (Page 18)

❏ 10. Hold the fin vertical with masking tape strapped
across the top of the fin over to both stab tips. Adjust
the tension on the masking tape to pull the fin to one
side or the other until it is vertical. Re-check alignment
and do not disturb the fin until the epoxy is fully cured.
❏ 11. Draw a centerline on the balsa TE. Place the
rudder into position on the rudder TE and mark the
location of the hinges. Cut the hinge slots into the fin
and the rudder LE.
❏ 12. Now's a good time to sand all of the components
of the tail structure.
Let's get the top of the fuselage sheeted and get it off
the building board!
Sheet the top of the fuselage
Before proceeding with sheeting the top of the
fuselage, you need to decide how you are going to
finish the cockpit area. You have the option of
creating a full cockpit or simply gluing a pilot bust
under the canopy. There is no question the addition
of the full cockpit interior is going to really add to your
model. We would suggest that you take the
additional time to do this.
❏ 1. Cut formers F3, F4 and F5 flush with the top of the
sheeted stringers. This will create our cockpit area.
❏ 2. Locate and glue the die-cut 1/8" [3.2mm] ply
former F5C and former IP into position as shown on
the plan.
❏ 3. Test fit the stringers into position in the notches
on former F5C back to the tail. At the tail, sand the
stringers to fit where they meet with the fin and stab.
When you're satisfied with the fit, glue the stringers
in place.
❏ 4. Test fit the stringers into position in the notches
on former IP forward to the nose ring and firewall.
The stringers go to the nose ring on the left and
center stringer. The right side stringer should stop at
the front of F1. Glue them in place when you are
satisfied with the fit.
Have you decided on your cockpit option yet? No
more procrastination!
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