- 1). Determine the weight of the other fabric components of the aircraft, and purchase one to match. Poly-fiber fabric typically comes in three weights: heavy, which is generally intended for agricultural and bush aircraft; medium, which is recommended for normal service; and light uncertified, which should only be used over plywood surfaces or on uncertified ultralight aircraft.
- 2). Calibrate the iron to 350 degrees F to achieve the best performance from the fabric.
- 3). Glue the fabric to the wing frame with fabric cement. Apply the iron over the entire fabric surface to tighten the fabric against the frame. The poly-fiber material will reach its maximum shrink potential of approximately 10 percent, preventing flapping, shrinking and tearing once the aircraft is in flight.
- 4). Apply one coat of fabric sealer to the entire wing. Secure the fabric to the rib structure with pop rivets and tapes.
- 5). Brush on two coats of fabric sealer, allowing time for drying between each coat.
- 6). Block ultraviolet radiation by spraying three cross coats of silver spray over the fabric.
- 7). Apply two coats of topcoat paint. Although many aircraft owners frequently substituted auto paint, recent FAA changes to the supplemental type certificate now prohibit any paint other than Poly-Tone or Aero-Thane.
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