Empenage Question

[914pete]

I'm sure this is a stupid question, first time builder here and I'm not seeing specifics on page 2.  I'm building the vertical stab. I decided to go with 1/2" 4130 for the leading edge and adding a couple more ribs.  Question, does the top of the 1/2" leading edge tube get positioned above the 3/4" aluminum hinge tube or should I fish mouth the 1/2" tube a little and position it against the 3/4" aluminum vertical tube?  I'm assuming I should use which ever way for the rudder and the horizontal stab/elevator as well. 

Also, if anyone has anything else to add in regards to the construction of the tail feathers before I rivet it all together, please offer suggestions.  Thanks!  Pete

[914pete]

60+ views, no answer?  Is there not a "correct" way to do it?

[Tom XL-7]

I don't know if there is a real answer. One or the other I just don't see an advantage. 
It's a corner and it needs to be strong. So whichever make sure your gusset fits well and your rivets are tight.
so you have a half inch transitioning to a 3/4 tube and on the moving part, you transition all the way down to 3/8 on the trailing edge.
Don't yet see one as prettier than the other. but perhaps a single gusset wrapped around one of the tubes may be stronger than two separate gussets. And that would apply everywhere. Not really shown if it's wrapped or two pieces.
You could wrap that around the top or the hinge tube.  whichever got wrapped I would make the long tube that covers the other.
Don't forget to try to isolate the steel from the alum. 
 Maybe the bigger tube should be longer so as not to present a sharp edge to those wimpy gussets.
Flip a coin brother, and don't look back.
Tom XL-7

[joecnc2006]

I put mine so the 1/2" tube would meet the face of the 3/4" tube, this way the gusset would wrap around the 3/4" tube nicely and i just formed it to mate the 1/2" tube for a smoother transition.

you can see what I did here.
https://www.eaglersnest.com/forum/index.php?topic=1054.msg6452#msg6452

Also if you use the crome moly for the leading edge you may want to prime the mating surfaces to help prevent Galvanic corrosion. depends on your area and the elements.

[Vince Carucci]

I interpreted the drawings as having the open end of the leading edge tube against the side of the 3/4" vertical tube. This also seems to be the strongest joint condidering how the forces would get transmitted through the gusset and around the vert tube. That is how in plan do to mine. 

Vince

[914pete]

Thanks for the responses.  I decided to position the 1/2" tube against the 3/4" tube as well.