Thorp Air Command - T18.net

I'm in the process of bending the 580-5 angles and was wondering if there is a specific bend radius suggested for them. I am thinking to just match the natural curve. But if there was a specific number, I would use that. I thought I could find station width dimensions on the plans, bit haven't found it so far.
Thanks for any input,
Bruce

THe 580-5 is the longerons if memory serves me. This is a "Joggle", I made a set of dies that I used in the hydralic press. Last time I saw them Roy Farris had them. I think anything that will let the two parts mate would be OK. ??

If you are talking about the main longerons, we rivet them flat and bring them in as we Cleco the sides to the frames. This allows some skin tightening and makes for a great rivet line. The 1" shorter pieces need to be pre-bent. I opened my vice, laid the piece across the opening and struck the web as I moved it along. This is an eyeball operation.

_________________
Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL

" Eye Ball Operation" Never heard it put that way but I think I have used this operation quite a bit Bob, seems this is an old procedure performed by Those with extreme determination and some fortitude. I will put this Phrase in my bag and use it more offen....it has a ring to it......Dan

Also known as "TLAR." That Looks About Right.

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Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL

I think I have the right designation. I'm at home, plans at airport.
These are the 1x1x1/8 angle that run from the baggage to firewall.
Thy will not flex like the full length longerons. Those were easy!
I've bent the 580-5's over a radius block I made, just not sure how much is correct.
Thanks,
Bruce

If TLAR is the measurement, that's what I'll use.
Thanks all

Use Bobs method, Bruce. Just back rivet in the flat. It will bend to the belly pan. It might take some straps, but it will bend.
Cubes

Have to correct myself, these things are 3/16 thick!
The full length longerons bend with the skin very nicely but these -5's are stout!
Not trying to drive you guys crazy, just want to be sure we're talking about the same thing.
Thanks,
Bruce

They are pretty stout, Bruce. It was a long time ago, but I believe I had my belly skins to use as a guide. Clamped the longerons in a big vice and just "worked" them until they were as close to the curve of those skins as I could get them.

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John Evens
Arvada, Colorado
T-18 N71JE (sold)
Kitfox 7 SS N27JE

Thanks John and everyone else for the replies. That's what I've done and I think I've got it pretty close.
Bruce