Converting ARF hinge slots to accept Robart hinges

[rcflyer]

Hi guys, I have an 35% ARF which is already slotted for pinned hinges. The quality of the hinges is just appaling! I am thinking of using Robart point hinges (3/16"). The spacing between the Robart hinges is such that they coincide with the slots. It is not a problem to drill holes through the slots for the Robarts, and I will be using epoxy to fill up the slots and for the Robarts. Is it safe to do this? Has anyone done something similar before i.e. convert the slots for Robarts? I will probably do a pull test using some scrap wood first. Anyway, if there's anyone who has done this before without any issues, then that would be reassuring. Thanks for your inputs!

[3ddd]

i have done this a lot but i use poly glue so it foams into the slot and seals it.drill your hole for yhe robarts and after you put in the glue tape over the rest of the slot with masking tape and then insert your hinge .this way the glue stays in the slots and lessens the mess

[rcflyer]

Thanks for the lightning reply! I'm sure glad to hear your good experience. BTW just take a look at one of the defective the ARF hinges. Look at the rusty pin and how easily it comes out of the hinge! It will be disastrous to use them. This coming from a QQ Yak54 is unbelievable!

[rede2fly]

ditto i have done the same thing. only differance is the glue. i have used for years elemers glue for this for filling up spaces it works very well and is as strong on wood as anything else you can buy. the best part is cleaning any mess its very easy. down side is it takes a little longer for it to set up. in the long run it will hold as good, if not better than any other glue i have used try a glue test with some scrap balsa and see for yourself. i would about bet that elmers is the same as hinge glue. nothing wrong with epoxy just too messy for me..

[hpapilot]

	Quote: Originally Posted by rcflyer
	It will be disastrous to use them.

hmm. Tell my 102" QQ Yak that. I'm using the stock hinges and have had zero issues. All the pins are very firmly stuck in my hinges.

I do prefer hinge points however. Just saying, the stock hinges actually work very well...

RJ

[rede2fly]

	Quote: Originally Posted by rcflyer
	Thanks for the lightning reply! I'm sure glad to hear your good experience. BTW just take a look at one of the defective the ARF hinges. Look at the rusty pin and how easily it comes out of the hinge! It will be disastrous to use them. This coming from a QQ Yak54 is unbelievable!

yep my qq yak had them too. i personaly think they are junk, but what do i know. i would never ever use them. but then i didnt like the wing pin holders either. crazy but again what do i know

[rcflyer]

I have a bottle of Pacer Hinge Glue and it does look and feel like Elmer's. Anyway, I prefer to work with slow cure epoxy, just a personal preference. I'm sure Elmer's and Gorilla will work just as well.

[3ddd]

just why i changed mine to robarts.the stock ones with my toc yak were the same way

[pepatrick]

I guess the point it is...use a good quality glue and you wont have problems.

[3ddd]

yes the poly will fill the remaining slot if you put masking tape over the open slot parts there is no mess to clean up