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Thread: Rib stitching vs rivets

  1. #1
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    Default Rib stitching vs rivets

    Hi all. I am new to the fabric covering world.

    Can you give me some info on the pro's and con's of rib stitching vs riveting? Looking at videos out there, the end result of stitching looks smoother and more finished.

    I know the factory is now riveting. Is that just because it is easier, or is it also better?

    Thanks in advance, John

  2. #2
    Senior Member 40m's Avatar
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    Default Re: Rib stitching vs rivets

    Quote Originally Posted by aflyer View Post
    Hi all. I am new to the fabric covering world.

    Can you give me some info on the pro's and con's of rib stitching vs riveting? Looking at videos out there, the end result of stitching looks smoother and more finished.

    I know the factory is now riveting. Is that just because it is easier, or is it also better?

    Thanks in advance, John
    You might also check Super Cub Forum.

  3. #3
    Senior Member Clay Hammond's Avatar
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    Default Re: Rib stitching vs rivets

    For the factory it is no doubt cheaper and quicker to rivet. What is your time worth to you. Is your build about the journey or the destination? Either method is perfectly acceptable, you have to decide what kind of look you are going for.
    _______________________
    Clay Hammond

  4. #4
    Senior Member TroyBranch's Avatar
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    Default Re: Rib stitching vs rivets

    Rib stitching:
    Leaves a much smaller bump when adding the tapes.
    Looks nice
    Easier to remove fabric as you just cut the line verses drill the rivet
    You should have two people to make the lacing as fast a possible. Hard to reach far side of wing.
    Takes more time to install.

    Rivets:
    More work to iron around each rivet for a nice look or the tapes
    You have to drill each Rivet to remove fabric
    Easier to install alone
    Way faster over all and the ribs are design for rivets

    I riveted as it was much faster. I have rib laced other aircraft but rivets are just so easy.
    I don't think there is one any less strong over the other.

  5. #5
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    Default Re: Rib stitching vs rivets

    Quote Originally Posted by TroyBranch View Post
    Rib stitching:
    Leaves a much smaller bump when adding the tapes.
    Looks nice
    Easier to remove fabric as you just cut the line verses drill the rivet
    You should have two people to make the lacing as fast a possible. Hard to reach far side of wing.
    Takes more time to install.

    Rivets:
    More work to iron around each rivet for a nice look or the tapes
    You have to drill each Rivet to remove fabric
    Easier to install alone
    Way faster over all and the ribs are design for rivets

    I riveted as it was much faster. I have rib laced other aircraft but rivets are just so easy.
    I don't think there is one any less strong over the other.
    Rivets provide a more uniform loading of the rib as they transfer the lift generated by the wing to the top and bottom of the rib. With lacing, all the load goes through the lace to the bottom part of the rib. Lace stretches as well.

  6. #6
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    Default Re: Rib stitching vs rivets

    Thanks guys. Sounds pretty even between the two. I would like to fly, so I guess I'll use the rivets.

    John

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