Detailed Instructions
Table Of Contents
Covering the Top of the Wing:
Using the backing from the wing panel that you just covered
as a template, cut a piece of UltraCote® to be applied to the
top of the wing. Be sure to cut a top panel, making sure that
the adhesive is on the correct side. Apply the covering to the
top of the wing using the same techniques as described in
steps 3 through 6. Be sure that the covering overlaps a
minimum of a 1/4" when trimming the edges and securely
seal the edges with the iron.
Shrinking the Covering:
Now it’s time to shrink the covering. With the iron set to
300°F, apply heat using the same pattern used to apply the
covering starting at the spar and working outward. It may be
necessary to increase the temperature to 320°F to get rid of
stubborn wrinkles. Use the minimum amount of heat
necessary to tighten the covering.
Pro Tip -
Use heat, not pressure, to shrink the covering taught. If pressure is applied, gouges can be
pressed into the wood. Let heat, not pressure, do the work.
Alternate Method: A heat gun can also be used to shrink the covering. This works particularly well
over an open structure. It can also be used over a solid structure if a Hanger 9 Covering Glove™ is
used to gently press the covering to the surface after heat is applied.
Covering Fuselages and Other Solid Surfaces:
The technique for covering fuselages and other simple flat
surfaces is identical to covering a solid wing. Start with the
bottom, then sides, and finally the top. First, tack the center
of the surface down using an iron set to 220°F.Work outward
from the center, bonding the covering to the surface. Trim
and seal the edges. About 1/4" or more overlap is
recommended when applying the next piece of covering.
Shrink the covering, using the same method as described
above.
Important:
Even if you're experienced in applying other brands of covering, it’s important to
read the following instructions. UltraCote® incorporates a unique multi temperature controlled
adhesive and shrinkage system that makes achieving professional covering results easy.
Multi-Temperature Control System:
Understanding the benefits of this system and how to use it will make covering with UltraCote® easy
and help to ensure professional results. When using UltraCote®, there are three important
temperatures to be aware of.
Application Tempature-220°F (100°C):
At 220°, the adhesive on UltraCote® becomes active, allowing the covering to be attached to the
model.
While 220° will fully bond the covering to the model, it is well below the temperature that causes
UltraCote® to shrink. This is exactly what's needed when first attaching covering to the model to
prevent the covering from distorting.
Pro Tip -
Many professional builders mark this temperature on their covering iron with a marker or