Dimpling the elevator skins

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blueisthenewblack
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Re: Dimpling the elevator skins

Post by blueisthenewblack »

Sonex also makes a 120 degree nail dimple die:
http://www.sonexaircraft.com/eshop/cart ... ory_id=260

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Jinkers
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Re: Dimpling the elevator skins

Post by Jinkers »

I came up with an alternative method for dimpling the control surface skins. I got a piece of 1/4" x 4" x 6' steel and a 6' piece of 3/4" angle. I welded the angle to the flat piece to stiffen it then drilled 40 size holes in it and counter sunk them. I mounted it on two 4"x4"s and put the control surface over it. I have a piece of brass dowel that I drill a hole in the end of to put the male DIENQ dimple die in. This has worked well for my elevators and rudder. Photo's below...
Dimpling Tool.jpg
Control Surface Dimpling Jig.jpg
Dimpling Rudder.jpg
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bob_arthur
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Re: Dimpling the elevator skins

Post by bob_arthur »

Thanks Ryan and Glen
I will order the correct size dimpler

GlenNJ
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Re: Dimpling the elevator skins

Post by GlenNJ »

Bob,
The link you have posted for the nail dimpler shows the 3/32" one. You don't want that one, you want the 1/8" one. Also, buy a box of #6 finish nails to go along with the dimpler. As you use the dimpler in the rivet gun, the nail will wear. After many dimples, the nail will break. You want to replace the nail with a new one before this happens. Most of the times when the nail breaks, you can just pull the piece out of the gun. One time it broke in the rivet gun, and I had to take it all apart to get it out. Not fun.

Glen

Ryanfscs
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Re: Dimpling the elevator skins

Post by Ryanfscs »

That's what I used on the holes I couldn't get a c-frame or hand squeezer in.


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bob_arthur
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Dimpling the elevator skins

Post by bob_arthur »

How is everyone dimpling the center row of holes on the elevator skins?
With this?
http://www.cleavelandtool.com/mobile/3_ ... 8Y6n8RHaJI

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