nuts & bolts
building basics
Gluing Gussets
on Wood Structure
JOE NORRIS, EAA 113615
Wood construction is a time-honored method of building aircraft, dating back to the arliestdaysofexperimentation withgliders.
While wood continues to be a popular material for
constructing homebuilts, one thing that has changed
dramatically over time is the adhesive used.
1
www.EAA.org/video/Gluing
Glueing Gussets Using T- 88
Today, most homebuilders opt for some form of
epoxy, and T- 88 is one of the most popular choices.
This product is easily mixed, has some gap-filling
properties, and is not temperature-critical. Let’s take
a look at installing a plywood gusset on a wooden
structure using T- 88.
2
First, you must protect your skin. Epoxy can cause irritation or
allergic reaction, so you’ll want to use either gloves (latex or
nitrile) or, as shown here, an “invisible glove” cream.
3
You’ll be working with small quantities, so you won’t need a huge
container for mixing your T- 88. The bottom of a crushed soda or
beer can is the perfect size for mixing a batch of adhesive.
4
T- 88 is mixed in equal parts by volume, so simply draw a few lines
of epoxy across the can bottom, and then draw an equal number of
lines of hardener.
Use a Popsicle stick or tongue depressor to mix the adhesive and
hardener. Take time to mix thoroughly. When properly mixed, the
T- 88 will look creamy, as shown here.
