Rear Canopy Prep HOBBS 1168.5 hrs

Most of my activity lately has been focused on getting the rear canopy ready to glue with SikaFlex 295 UV. Since this will be an easier task than the main canopy, I figure its a good place to familiarize myself with SikaFlex without too much pressure. Most reports I've read say you can do the rear window in a short work session by yourself.

My first step was to do any fine trimming needed for a good fit. This required putting the plexi on and off several times. Cutting and then polishing all edges, finally getting it just right. I will tell ya, this is easier (less stressful) if you are doing a 'targa' strip like I am because your edge doesn't have to be so perfect.

Starting to plan my 'spacer' strategy. I am using two popsicle sticks taped together to get a nominal 1/8" gap (~3mm). This seems to be the general target for RV guys, although SikaFlex recommends 4mm. The problem with my plane is I didnt factor this gap into the construction so I have, shall we say, "challenges" to this approach. I'm still undecided exactly how I plan to address this...but for initial fitting, I used 1/8".

A slight diversion from the rear canopy took me to the struts on the forward canopy. I got these babies installed and its looking good! Beyond the superior in-flight visibility, I love the look of a tip-up...not sure why, becaue a lot of guys like the sliders. Maybe it's because the fighter planes of my childhood were F-16's and F-14's...tip-ups, not sliders.

Even though I am doing one half at a time...I did want to do a sanity check with the forward canopy to see if I saw any problems before I glue the rear canopy in place. It will need to do some of the same minor trim work but its looks fine for now.

Now I set about trimming the protective plastic back and adding tape for my edges...i.e., make sure the SikaFlex doesnt get anywhere its not supposed to. Just like taping for paint.

I scuffed the inside skins, not only for the SikaFlex but also because I plan to paint them black later...these will be visible even with the full CAD interior package.

Scuff the SikaFlex surfaces on the Plexi with scotchbrite for good ahesion.

My SikaFlex materials...ready to rock and roll. This was about $100 worth of supplies and should do the entire canopy. I plan do a test piece to see how it all works before committing to the canopy...stay tuned.