Wing Ribs

[ben]

I have a Nipper MK2 that is mostly in bits and awaiting my attention for a rebuild. The wing appears well constructed (original factory?)and very sound with the exception of a couple of cracked ribs. However on measuring up to order the necessary wood I discovered that all the ribs are constructed entirely of 15mm x 6mm albeit with 1.5mm plywood capping bringing the average size up to about 15 x 8(-)mm top and bottom. The plans call for 15x9 top and bottom for ribs one and two and 15 x9 and 15x6 respectively top and bottom for the remainder.
Two questions : 1. Is the plywood capping an acceptable way of increasing the thickness of the ribs?? There is no indication of plywood on the plans. 2. What sort of tolerance in thickness is allowable?

Any suggestions other than trashing the whole lot and starting afresh?

Regards

[G-ARBG]

Ben,

Firstly, don't trash it (or any parts of it)!

I've been re-building a MKII for the past six years between other priorities and have many pictures covering the progress which may help you. Only the cowlings and engine mods need finishing to see 'RBG finally complete.
Any good BGA inspector will be able to advise you regarding the wood work. For the rest, the MKII has some advantages over later models.
If you are interested in pictures please contact me through site moderator Paul Gibbs

David G-ARBG