Vertical stabilizer 4130

[Shay King]

Hi again guys, I had some 1/2” 4130 tube surplus and I’ve laid out the vertical stabilizer with the leading edge and bottom rib made from it. I’m thinking of welding some.035 gussets at the front and rear. The rear ones would be overlapped by the aluminium gussets. Any advice?

[Kamcoman77]

Looks good, but I don't see any particular value in adding 4130 gussets. I used 4130 for my leading edge but not the bottom rib. My V Stab seems plenty strong, but the 4130 lower rib does sound like a good idea.

[Brock]

I'm don't understand why the lower rib of 4130 would be a benefit since it like 2" from the fuselage mounts.  Have there been problems with the aluminum leading edge rudder?  Mine is built but not covered, still time to change it.

[Shay King]

That’s a good point Brock. The only issue I’ve seen mentioned is ribs bending when the fabric is shrunk.