PA-12 U channel bracing

[Skipper]

I’m learning about PA 12’s as much as I can. I believe that’s gonna be my next build. Is the sheet metal you channel bracing throughout the upper roof/greenhouse factory? I see extensive use of quarter inch deep and 3/8 inch you channel pretty much throughout the lower boot cow and in the cabin. I guess all of the PA 12 aircraft I’ve been around had already replaced that with round tube or square tube. Which is correct?

 

[DENNY]

I believe what you are describing is the gingerbread. It is still extensively use in both PA 12 and PA18 builds. Can you post some pictures of the areas you are talking about.
DENNY

 

[Skipper]

Sure, I’m probably able to run over there and grab a few pictures for you. Thank you.

 

[Skipper]

 

[Skipper]

 

[fishhook]

Yes still in use everyday and every build pretty much. If your experimental, make your own 3/8 ×3/8 0.025 thick 4130 channel, way way better than the stock stuff. If you make a 7/16 channel it is way easier to rivet nutplates into.

 

[DENNY]

Did you look on the inside to see if that is not channel like on the rest of the frame? You will see a lot of variation used in builds. Some actually have some good thought put behind the reason why. Some was simply used because that is what they had handy and did not want to wait or buy the correct part. The stock gingerbread has stood the test of time and is easy to get. Nothing wrong with beefing up a area if you are changing from original design which most do. I believe round tube is stronger than square, however square may be easier to work with.
DENNY

 

[Skipper]

Did you look on the inside to see if that is not channel like on the rest of the frame? You will see a lot of variation used in builds. Some actually have some good thought put behind the reason why. Some was simply used because that is what they had handy and did not want to wait or buy the correct part. The stock gingerbread has stood the test of time and is easy to get. Nothing wrong with beefing up a area if you are changing from original design which most do. I believe round tube is stronger than square, however square may be easier to work with.
DENNY

Good to know. It’s all over the fuselage in various sizes. I’m trying to get my head wrapped around this build. I’ll dive in and start a build log. Thanks again.