On Jul 20, 2:53*pm, Brad wrote:
I've heard that on some sailplanes, putting a mylar gap seal on the
top surface can cause handling issues. Anyone care to comment on that?
I've added a mylar seal and the safety tape to the top of mine, and it
does indeed add a small step just ahead of the elevator, despite my
best attempts at hiding the fwd bump with safety tape.

Thanks,
Brad

The problem with adding mylar and transition tape is inadequate
adhesion between the wing & mylar and/or between the mylar and
transition tape. If I remember correctly, the guy that felt his Ventus
was uncontrollable near Uvalde had waxed his ship and then added the
transition tape over fresh wax. The tape lifted and believing the ship
was uncontrollable, he bailed out! I recommend the 10mm of the mylar
that will come into contact with the stab/wing/fin be sanded with 220
dry sandpaper and the coresponding 10mm area on the stab/wing/fin
also be sanded with 220 dry sandpaper. Wipe both surfaces with acetone
just before applying the mylar. Also, wipe the area where the
transition tape will go with acetone just before applying the tape.
Hope this helps,
JJ