FAA Advisory Circular 43.13-1B
Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices
Aircraft Inspection and Repair
AC 43.13-1B | 2. Fabric Covering | 3. Inspection and Testing | 2-35. Rejuvenation of the Dope Film
AC 43.13-1B
9/8/98
NOTE: ASTM publication D1682 has
been discontinued but is still referred
to in some Aerospace Material Speci-
fication (AMS). The grab test method
previously listed in ASTM D1682, sec-
tions 1 through 16, has been super-
seded by ASTM publication D5034.
The strip testing method (most com-
monly used in aircraft) previously
listed in ASTM D1682, sections 17
through 21, has been superseded by
ASTM publication D5035.
2-35. REJUVENATION OF THE DOPE
FILM. If fabric loses its strength, there is
nothing to do but remove it and recover the
aircraft. But if the fabric is good and the dope
is cracked, it may be treated with rejuvenator, a
mixture of very potent solvents and plasticiz-
ers, to restore its resilience. The surface of the
fabric is cleaned and the rejuvenator sprayed
on in a wet coat, and the solvents soften the
old finish so the plasticizers can become part
of the film. When the rejuvenator dries, the
surface should be sprayed with two coats of
aluminum-pigmented dope, then sanded and a
third coat of aluminum-pigmented dope ap-
plied, followed with the colored-dope finish.
When repairing, rejuvenating, and refinishing
covering materials approved under an STC, in-
structions in the manual furnished by the mate-
rial supplier should be followed.
2-36.2-41. [RESERVED.]
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