On Friday afternoon, we installed the first carbon hinge on the aft cowling-to-cowling joint. First, we drilled cleco holes and did a fit test for the hinge.

Leading Edge Composites suggests a two-part adhesive (Loctite E-120HP). Using the dispenser and mixing tip, the adhesive is applied directly to the bonding surface. We worked quickly to apply an even layer of the adhesive onto both the back of the hinge and onto the cowling, then pulled the hinge into place with the clecos.

After 6 hours, the adhesive is still soft, so this will sit overnight and we'll check it on Saturday morning.

See pictures 232 & 233 for sequencing details.

3/24/2018   Picture 230