Saturday, December 12, 2009

I performed my glider annual inspection a couple weeks ago.  The glider is faring well however while working on removing the scratches from the carbon base bar, I did find a minor crack on the left side on the grip at the cradle of my thumb and index finger.  After talking with Steve at WW we determined it wasn't a structural issue however, I decided to have it repaired. Bruce down at Highland has done carbon repair in the past and was willing to take a look at the crack.  I picked up the repaired base bar a week ago at the airport and to my surprise he not only repaired the crack but also recoated the carbon with 2-part Poly Fiber Epoxy Varnish (EV-400). This varnish is used on aircraft and has a UV protectant.  Check out the results!




My brother Marty mentioned using Envirotex Lite which is also a 2-part epoxy varnish.  This can be purchased in smaller quantities (8oz,) at Michaels or Hobby Lobby.  I am pleased with the results of this finish.  I don't know when I cracked it but most likely it was the result of loading it up on the cart wrong at one of the tow sites.  Another possibility could be rough handling the glider when I tried to self launch at the Pulpit back in July.  Carbon is very strong in the air but fragile on the ground.  I will be more careful in the future.