#1
Posted: 2/17/2010 15:47:23
I'm rebuilding a 1936 Aeronca LC which has a beat-up galvanized steel firewall measuring .032 thick I would l;ike to replace it with stainless, but .032 seems on the heavy side for this aircraft. and I'm not sure if the present one is original. Can anyone provide guidance as to whether or not stainless sheet is being used on vintage aircraft firewalls and if so, what is the most common thickness of stainless sheet being used on vintage airplanes in the 100 hp range? Thanks for any opinions or advice. Joe Garland
#2
Posted: 2/21/2010 09:05:31
Hi Joe,
I'm currently restoring a 1946 Funk B85C with a Continental C85 that has an .020 thick stainless steel firewall. If you make the change though, you will probably need a field approval (FAA form 337), but I wouldn't expect the Fed's to give you much trouble approving it. Greg
#3
Posted: 3/4/2010 14:16:44
Hi Greg,
Thanks for responding to my Firewall question. Your Funk projects sounds interesting. I seem to remember seeing a Funk in flying condition that was powered by a small Ford V8 engine. It may have been at Blakesburg years ago. Sounds like you have a more up to date model with that 85 Contenintal in it. Again, I appreciate your reply and will most likely proceed along the lines you suggest. Hope your Funk is in the air soon. All the best, Joe Garland
#4
Posted: 5/25/2010 12:48:57
Hi Joe,
I am restoring a Corben Baby Ace that was built in the mid 1930s. It had a galvanized firewall that was in poor condition. I have replaced it with a stainless steel one. I purchased the flat stock from Aircraft Spruce. It is 304 alloy, .018" thick. I agree that .032" thick material would be difficult to work with to form the flange, although I have not tried to work with SS of that thickness. The only part that was difficult to form on my firewall was bending the flange in the compound curve areas in each corner. It was so difficult that I formed tabs and riveted on the flanges. I can send you photos by email, if you like.
Jonathan Tibbets, EAA 299851
jsttibbets@hotmail.com