Results 1 to 7 of 7

Thread: A Little Bit of Varnish Might have been Nice

Hybrid View

Previous Post Previous Post   Next Post Next Post
  1. #1
    rwanttaja's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 2011
    Location
    Seattle
    Posts
    2,948

    A Little Bit of Varnish Might have been Nice

    This is one of about ~16 #8 machine screws that go through the wooden top longerons to attach the metal that forms the top of the forward fuselage (in front of the cockpit). It was removed about ~30 years after the initial installation.

    Due to the moisture content of wood, it is recommended that all bolt holes be coated with varnish to minimize corrosion. Like this.

    Looks bad, but it wasn't much effort to remove, and I don't think the strength was greatly affected.



    Ron "Rusty" Wanttaja

  2. #2

    Join Date
    Jul 2011
    Posts
    72
    Are the screws dipped in varnish before inserting?

  3. #3
    rwanttaja's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 2011
    Location
    Seattle
    Posts
    2,948
    That, or a small brush is used to coat the hole through the wood. Wood has a ~12% moisture content, so if it's in solid contact with metal, corrosion can occur.

    Mind you, I didn't add varnish to the holes when I replaced the bolts. I figure in another 30 years, someone can cuss ME out....

    Ron Wanttaja

  4. #4

    Join Date
    Aug 2011
    Location
    Alabama
    Posts
    2,236
    After 30 years, that may in fact be an example of minimized corrosion!
    The opinions and statements of this poster are largely based on facts and portray a possible version of the actual events.

  5. #5
    Tralika's Avatar
    Join Date
    Aug 2013
    Posts
    78
    What about using stainless hardware that contacts the wood?

  6. #6
    rwanttaja's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 2011
    Location
    Seattle
    Posts
    2,948
    Quote Originally Posted by Tralika View Post
    What about using stainless hardware that contacts the wood?
    Certainly. But varnish is cheaper. :-)

    Ron "Squeezing a nickel so hard that Jefferson's head is coming out the buffalo's ***" Wanttaja

  7. #7
    Sam Buchanan's Avatar
    Join Date
    Nov 2011
    Location
    KDCU
    Posts
    567
    Quote Originally Posted by Tralika View Post
    What about using stainless hardware that contacts the wood?
    Most stainless hardware isn't as strong as AN cad-plated steel fasteners.
    Sam Buchanan
    The RV Journal RV-6 build log
    Fokker D.VII semi-replica build log

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •