How do you convert a Chrysalis to a bolt on wing?

"A second problem has been the conversion of the Chrysalis wing from rubber band mounting to nylon screws -- bad karma to do this? Outside the design params?"

From : Don Stackhouse

Bob,

Regarding your second question, the Chrysalis can be made with a bolt on wing in the same manner as the Monarchs, in fact I built the first prototype that way. We debated showing how to do this on the plans, and decided to leave it off. We figured that the rubber bands were better for beginners, and that showing the bolt-on method might encourage them to try something that could create other problems. On the other hand, we figured that the experts would be able to figure it out for themselves. My only recommendations would be to take care not to damage the leading edge dowels when you install the pegs at the leading edge.

On mine I drilled a single 1/8" hole into the "A" ribs in the wing root, just above the leading edge dowels, and a matching hole into the F2 bulkhead. A 1" piece of leftover leading edge dowel makes a good peg. An alternative would be to epoxy one or two dowels to the underside of the wing leading edge. If you use two dowels make sure they are long enough to reach from the leading edge to the lower spar cap. Use a patch of 1" glass tape epoxied over the peg and around the leading edge to reinforce the joint.

For the rear hold-down, fit a 1" chord, 3/32" thick plywood plate (grain crosswise) in the fuselage under the upper spruce longerons in front of bulkhead F3, then put a single 8-32 flathead nylon screw (the same as we use for this on the Monarchs) through the middle of the wing trailing edge at the center dihedral seam, and into a tapped hole in the nylon plate.

It's easier to do than it is to describe, which is another reason we decided not to put it on the plans!

I hope this answers your questions for now. Please let me know if you need more info. You and your friends might also want to periodically stop by this section on our web site for the latest advice and info. Good luck with your Chrysalis!

Don Stackhouse @ DJ Aerotech