browser icon
You are using an insecure version of your web browser. Please update your browser!
Using an outdated browser makes your computer unsafe. For a safer, faster, more enjoyable user experience, please update your browser today or try a newer browser.
« « Previous Post: Wings #13 (Left Flap) | Next Post: » »

Wing Storage Rack

Posted by on February 21, 2014

Being almost done with my left wing, I started looking into options to store it that would take up minimal space in my workshop. I am glad that I decided to build the wings before moving on to the forward fuselage, as working on the wings has taken up most of the available room in my workshop. It would have been difficult with the big/long fuselage in the way. It’s funny how no matter how big a workshop is, it always gets filled up and could always stand to be just a little bit larger!

I found plans by another builder on how to build a movable wing rack for the Sonex wings. Here’s a link.

I gathered all of the supplies in the material list for the rack.

Waiex-1000

Waiex-1001

 

I then marked up the plywood for the 3 sizes of triangular gussets as showed in the plans. These plans do a great job of maximizing the use of the materials. I cut them with a circular saw.

 

Waiex-1002

Waiex-1004

Waiex-1005

Waiex-1006

 

Then I cut all of the 2x4s to length.

 

Waiex-1007

 

When I installed the castering wheels, I found that the 2 1/2 bolts called for in the plans were too long and interfered with the movement of the wheels. So I cut them shorter after tightening them. 2″ bolts would have worked better.

 

Waiex-1008

Waiex-1010

Waiex-1011

 

Here is the base of the rack taking shape.

 

Waiex-1012

Waiex-1013

Waiex-1014

 

And the top crossbeam.

 

Waiex-1018

 

Those plywood gussets do a great job of making the whole structure very stiff.

Finally, I added the 2″ wide tow straps which will be the slings for the wings. Again I ran into this issue of the bolts being too long. I was worried about this protrusion poking into the wings once they’re in position, so I cut these too. I will probably replace them with new bolts pushed in from the opposite side.

 

Waiex-1019

Waiex-1020

Waiex-1021

Waiex-1023

 

Now all I need are some wings to store in it! Here’s a sneak peek.

 

Waiex-1047

Waiex-1048

Waiex-1049

Waiex-1050

 

Since the rack is on wheels, I was able to spin it around and put the wing out of the way against a wall of my workshop. Scrap lengths of carpet would also work for the slings I think. The wing sits pretty securely under its own weight, but if I were moving the rack around a lot (say, onto a trailer) I would add a 3rd strap on the outside to keep the wings from tipping out. All in all it’s a great design.

 

Waiex-1051

 

 

« « Previous Post: | Next Post: Wings #14 (Left Wing Completion) » »

3 Responses to Wing Storage Rack

  1. Darick Gundy

    Really nice website and interesting.

  2. AL Roberts

    I would like to know where to get the plans for the wing stand you have built. I am working in my garage and when the time comes to do the wings I will need a stand like this. Thanks

    AL

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

SOLVE: