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The First Step

The first step in the paint process is taking place in the photo's below. Flight control surfaces, flaps,

gear doors, composite parts, etc. are removed from the aircraft. All plexiglass is sealed for protection,

as well as fuel vents, caps, pitot static systems, landing gears, etc. During this process, we are also

inspecting the aircraft for any hidden damage, or cosmetic issues that should be dealt with.

(click any of the thumbnails below for a larger view)

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The Stripping process

During the stripping process, the paint is removed via plastic media removal. The pictures below show

some of that process.

(click any of the thumbnails below for a larger view)

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Reworking the composite

Composites, such as the nose of the aircraft are treated differently. The paint is removed down to the

gel coat using mechanical means (dual action sanders and hand sanding). Composite repairs are

completed and a primer is applied to check for any flaws. The tip tanks, although aluminum, use a

body filler to give them a more aerodynamic shape. These tanks are prepped the same as composite

because of that filler.

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Hidden Damage Repair

Some of the hidden damage found on this aircraft is typical. This is cosmetic damage and has no effect

on the airworthiness of the aircraft. Regardless, all of these areas need to be addressed to bring the plane

back to a like new condition. The nose of the aircraft has some ice damage, and the stainless exhaust

augmenters are showing wear. We have coordinated with the avionics shop and will be removing certain

antennas that are no longer needed with the new radio package. An ADF sense antenna is being removed

and patched below.

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Speed Mods and Glass Replacement

Knots 2 U www.knots2u.com aileron and rudder gap seals are being installed. Windshield and all windows

are being removed and replaced.

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Repairs and Mods completed

The new glass from LP Aero Plastics has been installed. www.lpaero.com   One piece windshield, pilots,

and copilots windows have frameless vents installed. All glass is tinted in gray and .250 in thickness. New

augmenters have been installed in the exhaust area on both wings. After the repairs and Mods were completed,

the aircraft was washed followed by and etch.

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Click here for the second phase of the painting process