The first step after deciding what to replace was to take the ailerons apart. This meant drilling out the rivets without damaging the underlying structure. Once apart, I found problems that were hidden
such as a torn aileron spar. “Acceptable Methods” AC-43.13 describes the acceptable repairs to such parts. And the Cub
Clues newsletter were very helpful. You can see in the pictures the steps of taking the aileron apart and the repair of the
aileron spar. Also shown is the aileron hinge which required hand work to remove the paint and corrosion. Sandblasting
was out of the question because of the aluminum surfaces nearby.
The most difficult job was fitting and riveting the new leading edge skins to the ribs and spar. The difficult part was lining
up the holes for riveting. A “strap duplicator” from Avery Tools did the trick. Here is where I really learned riveting. I learned real skills in using the rivet gun and a rivet squeezer. And for some impossible-to-reach places, I learned the value
of Cherry Rivets which are pulled like a pop rivet but much stronger.