Patching fabric

[mhorowit]

Wasn't there a discussion on the old list about using used (previously nitrated, ironed, silvered and doped) fabric from a salvaged a/c for patching small holes?

Maybe removing dope back to fabric, gluing a salvaged piece in place, then colored dope overall????? - Mike

[alwaysoar]

Re: Patching fabric

It would be a lot easier to patch small holes with new fabric. "Small" holes fall under preventative maintenance in Part 43, so you can do it yourself. A local A&P could sell you small quantities of what you need so you don't have to shell out a lot of money, and the Ceconite Manual will give you a step by step (I assume you'r talking Ceconite from what you wrote about nitrate, etc.). Patching small holes is really easy, just time consuming because you have to wait for dope to dry.

[lktiller]

Re: Patching fabric

Mike, I cut the fabric under the wing tank to repair a leak at the fuel outlet.
Used fabric cut from another t-craft to patch the 6 in. x 2 in. hole. Can't see the patch unless you know where to look.
Tried same thing on elevator when I repaired the trim mechanics. Couldn't quite get a wrinkle out, but it looks ok.
Old pre-painted cloth must be perfectly flat. Then use for small patches.
Large patches need new fabric.

Larry Tillery

[mhorowit]

Re: Patching fabric

Larry - how about using 'used' fabric to reinforce the area around the wing gas filler tank? Previous thread recommended a thin aluminum ring, but I"m looking at alternatives. Too large an area? - Mike

[lktiller]

Re: Patching fabric

I don't think I would use used fabric in this area. Too many curves and cuttings. It would work ok just not be pretty.