I found some paper that was pretty darn close to the .013
per ply the plans say is the thickness of a layer of BID. This made it
really easy to determine how many layers I would need. I ended up
needed 6 total, 4 in addition to the 2 plies that these sides get per plans
reinforcements.
I test fitted the MKNG-15A assembly (on top of the plans M
drawings, taped together) to be sure I had the right length for the strut.
I had to take a bit of length off even after cutting the strut to the 25
3/4" length per plans. I surely hope I don't wish it was longer later
on.... some folks have cut their main gear 1" shorter to get the fuselage
more level for lower-speed takeoffs.
Here I am installing the 4 extra layers of BID I needed to
get the MKNG-6 to fit properly. I put these on first, so they'd be
covered by the wrapping layers, and, staggered the ends of them about a half
inch each (each layer is 1" shorter in length than the next) to avoid any
bumps in the final product.
On went the 2 wrapping plys. This was quick, but, a
little messy to do since you have to roll the thing over a couple of times.
I thought about making a rotisserie of sorts for it but didn't since it's a
quick layup.
Into the vacuum bag it goes. Yes, I probably bag more
than I need to but this layup is awkward shaped and definitely needs the
strength a bubble-free low resin layup will bring. The final product
turned out very nice. You can hardly tell it was wrapped (unlike the
main gear layup I did... wish I would have bagged that.....)
