Fabric clip installation

[46cessna140]

Suggestions on how best to install wing fabric clips would be appreciated. I am fearful of poking a hole in the new fabric using needle nose pliers. Is there a better installation method?

[8224]

Just finished installing all the clips in the wings yesterday. My method is to install one end by hand and then pushing down on the center of the clip with thumb, give the upper end a whack with a small hammer, I use a 4 ounce ball peen. Usually have to hit it more than once. My thumb is still a little sore this morning! (From pushing the wire clip, not hitting my thumb with the hammer)
Steve Hawley

[per ardua ad astra]

A friend of mine made a tool out of a piece of timber with a slot in it. Seemed to work really well.

Paul. Over to you!

[7698]

As Andy suggests, I used a piece of timber approx 1.5" wide with a groove filed into the end to locate the clip... A rocking action easily pushed the clip in.

[46cessna140]

Thank you! Following your method worked fine to install clips.

[regular122]

I used a compass. You can set it to exact width and then tap the clips in. If the clips are very difficult, I used a piece of waxed string and pulled the bottom and then pushed in. See the thread below for pics. Steve

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