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How to Install a Flap Gap Seal

While aircraft manufacturers invest large amounts of money into creating the most aerodynamic and efficient aircraft designs possible, minor changes to an aircraft can still result in noticeable increases in performance. Flap gap seals are popular as they offer an inexpensive way to increase the speed and flight characteristics of a plane. The flap gap seals prevent the pressurized air under the plane's wings from mixing with the air above the wings. This separation of the air increases lift and decreases drag. Fortunately, the flap gap seal installation process is straightforward and can be completed without specialized tools or equipment.

Things You'll Need

Flap gap seal kit

Instructions

- 1
  Ensure that the aircraft's flaps are fully extended so that the full "gap" between the wing and flap is revealed. It is essential that the flaps are fully extended before attempting the flap gap seal installation process.
- 2
  Insert the flap gap seal into the gap with the ribbed or "teethed" side of the seal inserted into the gap. Press firmly on the top of the seal so that it is firmly lodged into the gap. Refer to the documentation provided with the flap gap seal kit to ensure that the correct section of material is inserted into the correct part of the wing.
- 3
  Examine all of the installed sections of gap seal to ensure that they are fully inserted. Next, test the flaps to ensure that they are fully functional after the installation of the gap seal material.

Aviation