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>From: Gary Wolf <gwolf@mail.tnweb.com>

>I have been trying to decide whether to leave the plane in primer till
>after the test flight, or paint it first and risk having to "retouch"
>things.
Hi, Gary.
I have been meaning to drop you a note regarding your post on the list
regarding paint for a couple of days. We have just finished another IV-P
and it seems that all I have done lately is work.
There are pros and cons to painting a IV before the first flight. If you
are you building a show winner-then fly it first. Do you just want a nice,
functional plane you can be proud of? Paint it first. I have done 4 IV's
now, all of them prior to the first flight with very little "retouching"
necessary. There are some areas that require special attention, however.
The controls will need rebalancing.
As for the hinge cutouts, I don't know that LE tape would be a good idea,
as I see the possibility of jamming. It would depend on the size of the gap
with the wing skin.I make the cutouts for the ailerons about 2.5" x 1".
Remember to make the opening large enough for the throw of the wrench.
If you are getting close to flight, I would be glad to take a look at your
project and do or help out with the finish work. In the past I have worked
with local auto painters, educating them on the differences invoved in
painting a composite airplane as opposed to an auto, if you choose to go
that route. Of course, you would be welcome to bring your project to our
place if you desire.

Brad Simmons
Airframes Inc.
btsim1@iswt.com
901-686-3610