I’m not sure why I did, but I put off actually ordering the new parts. I guess somewhere in my mind I wanted it to work out, but I knew that this elevator skin was beyond repair. Anyways, here I am – time to order my new parts.
I laid out the damaged skin, the manual, and the parts list and got to work ordering replacement skins, rivets, ribs, and cover plates. I must hand it to Van’s – they made this process incredibly easy and I sincerely appreciated their help at every step along the way.
I also ordered the custom shaped bucking bar for the elevators from Cleveland Aircraft Tool today. From what I gather, it is more cost effective than acquiring the steel, the tools, and the time to try and fabricate it yourself to such exacting specifications. I simply do not have the skill set to accomplish that on the timeline that I wish to keep. So Cleveland gets some more of my money! Good for them! Once I use it, I will post an update on my impressions of their craftsmanship and overall feel. Now it is time to wait for my new parts…