Rebel Rudder Tip Rib Orientation?

[Terry Dazey]

Hello Group:

After several years, I am revisiting my Fife rudder tail tip section on so I can complete the installation.

Any comments on what is the correct orientation for the RUDDER tail tip rib(s) (EL-29 and FIN-35)? I need to confirm whether flanges (EL-29 & FIN-35) point UP or flanges point DOWN as installed in the fiberglass tip and when installed onto the rudder? The single isometric exploded parts view drawing for the RUDDER that I have shows the flanges pointing UP. However, I have a note from many years ago where Robyn mentioned that "the correct orientation as shown in Chapter 7" (flanges pointing DOWN for the RUDDER). I keep going back to that single isometric drawing that shows the rib flanges pointing UP. Another issue is that if the EL-29/FIN-35 is oriented/installed with the flanges UP, there would be a need for a relatively large hole in the aft end of the EL-29 channel, so upon tip installation, the channel will slide over the top rudder spar attach bolt and the neighboring smaller safety wire bolt.

It seems to me, with the flanges pointing DOWN and with hard left or right rudder in flight, the fiberglass tip would act like "a scoop in the wind" which might put unnecessary stress on the fiberglass tip, attach screws and other hardware downstream.

Any thoughts? Comments? Maybe a non-issue? Everything clear as mud?

Thanks in advance.

Terry Dazey
Rebel 662




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