Post by AMSThe Sig site says that Koverall can be applied with either Dope or with
Stix-It. What are the pros and cons with each method.
Thanks,
Andrew
Koverall, unlike Solar Tex or Cover rite, has no adhesive. Stix-it (or Balsa
Rite) is painted on the framework prior to attaching the covering.
On the pro side -- once you have painted on the balsa rite or stix-it, you
can iron on the cloth much like a plastic covering. Also, should you happen
to iron in a wrinkle while covering, just use a heat gun to release the
adhesive, and pull the wrinkle out.
On the con side -- you have to apply more of the liquid glue to the covering
to make the seams seal down. If you use too much, it could bleed out of the
seams or thru the top layer of cloth and react with the paint you use to
finish the project.
Using dope (nitrate) to attach the covering, you paint one or two coats on
the framework and use another (thinned a bit) coat to attach the cloth. This
process is more time consuming, but as additional sealer coats (nitrate
again--brushed or sprayed) are applied, they melt into the previous layer.
You can "bury" the seams with multiple coats of dope with either method, and
when the paint dries, you can lightly sand the seams to get rid of frayed
edges. Once the pores of the cloth are filled with clear dope, you can use
whatever type finish color coats over it.
Just remember -- whichever method you elect to use, the adhesives and the
paint all emit lots of fumes. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area.
Clean up solvent for the adhesives is acetone and it's also present in the
dope thinner so you might want to wear rubber gloves. Acetone is absorbed
thru the skin, so read the labels carefully.
Good luck on your project, and
Happy Landings
Rich