Mailing List lml@lancaironline.net Message #17861
From: <Billhogarty@aol.com>
Sender: Marvin Kaye <marv@lancaironline.net>
Subject: Re: [LML] Gear Doors
Date: Sat, 01 Mar 2003 23:08:39 -0500
To: <lml>

Mike Hutchins:

From all the great advice that I have received on the LML concerning my gear door flexing problem, I have decided on a  double belt and suspenders approach.


I am starting with the basic Lancair Service Bulletin approach with the foam and 1/4 inch HLPE and to that I am burying a 1/2 inch diam. aluminum tube formed in a long "L" .  This is all buried in micro and 5 bid carbon fiber.  Finally, I intend to add (as you suggest)  braces at about 4 or 5 different spots to support the slider assembly;  with at least one brace running across the large part of the door.

I bed my foam as you mention except that after painting both surfaces with epoxy,  I add a thin layer of micro to both, join them, add weight as necessary, and then add additional micro to fair in the edges.  After it cures, I scuff the surfaces lightly and add my carbon fiber.  Yes., its another step and yes it does add a little more weight,   However it avoids placing the carbon fiber at 90 degree angles and, I believe, promotes a better bond that is less likely to develop problems later on.

Assuming that this approach works (no flexing and gear retracts without problems), I will have some photos available for anyone who would like to see them.

Best Regards, Bill Hogarty

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