Help needed: bubbles forming on the glider skin

[elmosan]

Dear glider gurus,

I have recently acquired a pilot stevia. However, 2 longish blisters have formed on the control surfaces. I suspect I have landed on wet grass and the moisture caused the bloat blisters.

Is there any way to treat the glider covering to remove the bloating blisters? They are quite small, about 2-3cm long blisters.

Thanks in advance.

[joe yap]

It is normal for plastic covering film to form wrinkles and bubbles under hot sun, no matter how dry the airframe are. Just need to iron it back gently, using low heat and no steam. Set at the lowest setting first like 'Nylon' or 'synthetic', and gentle press the bubble down. If it persist, use a needle and prick a small puncture before ironing.

[elmosan]

Thanks joe,

Really just started on balsa gliders. I have limited knowledge about them. So I just take my home iron and apply direct heat? The iron will be in contact with the covering? Or do I need to buy a covering iron?

[joe yap]

Normal iron will do, but turn off the steam. Best result, use flat base iron. Start from the lowest heat though and increase a little at a time, if necceasry. Lighty contact the bubble with the iron and glide across it until it shrinks tight against the balsa skin.

[elmosan]

Thanks once again, Joe!