VEZ elevator rebuild - torque tube corrosion protection

[mattstecher]

Rebuilding a Varieze and the elevators were about a pound overweight (both sides) and about a degree past the balance limit so I am rebuilding them.

I have demolished the elevators down to bare torque tubes (and kept the hardware hoping to re-use) and am wondering what is the best way to add corrosion protection.

Canard Pusher Newsletter #66 recommends Alodine for new elevator builds, but I have found that unless the aluminum is completely clean Alodine does not penetrate well. Not to mention that its difficult to apply unless you can use a bath.

So I am wondering if I can use Zinc Phosphate instead?

Any and all advice is appreciated.

Fly and build safe,
Matt Stecher
VEZ N54EG

[genecockrell]

You can use zinc chromate in a spray can, its effective, cheap, and easy to apply... Its not highly resistant to scratches. I would wash the tube with conversion coating first, then rinse with water per directions.
Other option is to go get a can of self etching primer and spray this on... This stuff may be avaliable at an auto parts store or else at a paint and body supply store... It is usually about 14-16 a can