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The next stage of the build was to fit the rudder horn assembly, rudder, horizontal stabiliser, elevator and trimmer. This was a reasonably straightforward process that involved no surprises.

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The first stage in this process was to secure crossing cables. This simply involved using some pitot tubing and a cable tie to protect the cables from rubbing against each other.

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The elevator trim is simple but effective. The tab is riveted to the lower side of the trailing edge of the starboard elevator. All that’s need now is to connect the trim control cables to the control horns.

 

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The tailplane and elevators are pictured assembled and trial fitted to the aft fuselage. They are then removed in preparation for the installation of the composite fuselage fairings.

 

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The elevators were trial fitted and aligned with the horizontal stabiliser. Wing battens were used to hold them level while they were fitted. Holes are then drilled in the elevator joiner. Alignment is key here, check, check and check again! When fully fitted the elevator cables will connect to the control horn on the inboard section of the starboard elevator.

 

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The rudder horn assembly is bolted onto the bottom section of the rudder. This requires a slot to be burned through the fabric with a soldering iron to accept the rudder horn. It is slotted through the fabric slot and then riveted into place. The rudder was then mounted (as pictured) and the alignment checked again! Deflection is approximately 25 degrees either side.