Flying Scale Models Issue 169 2013-12

FORMATION DEC 13 Tony OK 29/10/13 10:48 Page 3
THE ISSUE AHEAD...
Formation...
FLYING SCALE MODELS - THE WORLD’S ONLY MAGAZINE FOR SCALE MODEL FLYERS
ON THE COVER
The Fokker Dr.1 Triplane of WW1
will always be be known for its
association with Germany’s top
scoring WW1 fighter ace, Baron
Manfred von Richthofen. This month’s
issue commences a three-part
construction feature for Peter Rake’s
electric powered 1/6th scale, 47”
wingspan model of the type with full
size free plans.
DECEMBER 2013 No.169

6 CONTACT
Just for openers
8 8 TASTY TIGGIE!
Alex Whittaker talks to Alan Glover about
his quarter scale DH 82 Tiger Moth
14 TECHNO SCALE
Scale related web sites worth a look
FULLSIZE FREE PLAN feature

16 FOKKER Dr.1 Triplane (Part 1)
A 1/6 scale, 47” (1198 mm) wingspan, electric powered model
designed by Peter Rake, with the prototype model built
by Darrin Covington
22 FOKKER DR.1 FLYING COLOURS

Warpaint for the Triplane: make your selection!
24 FAIRCHILD F.24 RANGER

Elegant 1:4.9 scale. 88.9” (2286mm) for 1.00 - 1.20 cu.in. engines.
Designed by Philip S. Kent
30 FAIRCHILD TYPE HISTORY

One of the most elegant light aircraft of the pre-WW2 era makes
24 a fine modelling subject
34 FAIRCHILD SCALE DRAWING

1:40 fine-line three-views
36 FAIRCHILD IN DETAIL
Close-up photo study to get the detail right
40 ERCOUPE SUBJECT FOR SCALE

A neat and tidy looking American light aircraft with an inviting
appearance for scale modellers
44 ERCOUPE SCALE DRAWING

1:40 fine-line detailed scale three-views
46 ERCOUPE IN DETAIL
Close-up photo study
50 SURVIVING FF SCALE
Part 7 - Andrew Hewitt reviews engine installation options and
engine bay accessibility
54 PRE-TENSIONING ruBBer motors

John O’Donnell explains what it is and how to apply it.
56 FREE FLIGHT SCALE NATIONALS

56 At last, the weather gods smiled on a bumper
Free Flight Scale Contest
60 THE QUIET ZONE

How to make machine guns for small WW1 aircrsft models
www.flyingscalemodels.com
DECEMBER 2013 FLYING SCALE MODELS 3

TEST FLIGHT.indd 2 21/02/2013 09:14
TEST FLIGHT.indd 3 21/02/2013 09:14
CONTACT DEC 13 Tony OK 29/10/13 10:57 Page 2
Editor: Tony Dowdeswell

Publisher: Alan Harman
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CONTACT
& CIRCULATION: Doolittle Mill,
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Tel. 01525 222573 Fax. 01525 222574.
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ince our first ever issue, which went on sale in
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S August 1997, FSM has provided Scale enthusiasts
with a very wide range of plans-based construction
features, covering all eras of aviation from the
earliest, right up to the jet age.
But in more than a century of manned, powered flight there
are a wide range of subjects still to fill gaps, some more
significant than others.
3 East Avenue, Bournemouth.
One those gaps that has stood out a mile is one of the most
BH3 7BW. famous of the WW1-era fighter types - the Fokker Dr.1 Triplane,
01202 586848 made famous, perhaps even infamous, as the final mount of
Email: [email protected] the top German fighter ace Baron Manfred von Richthofen,
who met his death on April 21st 1918 while flying the type in
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Doolittle Mill, combat low ever the lines on the Western Front in France.
Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Beds, The Dr.1 is not quite as original a design as one might
LU6 1QX. perhaps think - being prompted by the capture of a Sopwith
Tel. 01525 222573. Fax. 01525 222574. Triplane, which German aircraft manufacturers were quickly
invited to examine and evaluate - but it was Dutchman
PRINTING: Symbian Print Intelligence, Anthony Fokker who made the most of that opportunity
Calverley House, 45 Dane Street, (Netherlands remained neutral during WW1 and Fokker’s
Bishop’s Stortford, Herts, CM23 3BT. factories were in Germany).
Tel: 0870 870 1670; Fax: 0870 870 1675 Now though, we are able to fill in this significant gap in FSM’s
plans presentations with Peter Rake’s 1/6th scale example.
(c) Copyright Flying Scale Models Even at 1/6th scale, and notwithstanding the compact nature of
2013 ADH Publishing. the aircraft, Peter’s design requires a full six sheets of plans to
present and so will run as a three-part free plan feature starting
The paper used in this magazine is with this issue. Even though it spans only 47” (1194mm), it is
manufactured at the Leipa Georg Mill ‘triplane-tall’ and so is, nonetheless a reasonably substantial
and is 100% recycled using de-inked airframe, while still being compact enough the fit inside a car
pulp. The mill conforms fully with the fully assembled - except for the top wing.
requirements of both FSC and PEFC Naturally, being a Peter Rake design, it is intended for electric
and carries the full accreditations for
power, although, if the electric enthusiasts will excuse such
‘heresy’, I/C power could be substituted.
their environmental policies.
A full set of laser cut parts will back up this feature.
6 FLYING SCALE MODELS DECEMBER 2013
VintageLimited Edition Prints
visit: www.aeromodeller.com for the full range
Vintage AeroModeller A3 Cover Artwork - Limited Edition Prints

AERO POSTERS AD.indd 1 10/06/2013 14:43
TIGER MOTH Tony OK 15/10/13 14:43 Page 2
CLUBMAN SCALE
Tasty Tiggie
ost modellers have built, or she sees a new model of a Tiger model of the Tiger Moth. It is always
M bought, or planned to
build a De Havilland Tiger
Moth at some stage of
their scale modeling
careers. No matter how many times he
Moth, the true scale modeller will always
be drawn to it. I was going to say “ ...
like a Moth to flame..” but you get my
drift. There is a familiar reassurance on
encountering yet another fine scale
fascinating to see how different
modellers tackle key elements of their
individual Tiger Moth, and to see how
far they take their detailing. The choices
they make of power plant, silencing,
Alex Whittaker talks to Alan Glover about
his quarter scale DH 82 Tiger Moth

Naturally, the model will perform all the aerobatic
manoeuvres of the full-size aircraft.
undercarriage, propping, covering, scale based on a full size example which, until
detailing and finishing are endlessly recently, flew from Old Warden. Alan took
absorbing. his own photos of the original to use in the
construction of the model.
The model
Alan Glover is a well known modeller on Construction
the UK scale competition circuit. He is a Duncan Hutson kits were known for their
respected Scale Judge and a Nationals accuracy, and he always employed
Scale competitor too, so he knows a thing traditional balsa and ply construction,
or two about scale appearance. Alan sometimes augmented, as here, with
has very high standards. Looking at her accurate fibreglass components, which
detailing, she is a first class scale model. were included in this fine kit.
Needless to say, when I caught up with
Alan and his Tiger, they were competing Engine
in a BMFA scale event. The engine is a Laser 180 four stroke single.
For the sake of tidiness, convenience, and
Plan added reliability, the model is fitted with an
The model is built from the original SM Services on-board glow system,
Duncan Hutson Kit. Duncan is a controlled via a Y-lead on the throttle channel.
celebrated UK scale man renowned for
his design accuracy, so the faithfulness of Prop
the Tiger’s overall outline is assured. Graupner 18”x6” for normal sports flying.
Documentation Exhaust
The colour scheme chosen by Alan is Alan employed a custom Laser exhaust.

1 2
This incorporates an integral 2” silencer Covering Legending / Decals

outlet extension which allows the exhaust Good old fashioned but miraculous The decals, registration etc. are
gasses to escape from the scale position Solartex, doped with thinned shrinking hand-brushed using Humbrol paints,
below the cowl. dope before painting. laid-out with ink-compasses, and masking
tape. The legending was made using
Undercarriage Painting photos from the original aircraft, scaled
The undercarriage is practical, but closely The model was sprayed with Flair down to the correct size on Alan’s home
follows the original. It was built up from the Spectrum paint for the main airframe; i.e. computer. He then printed out on water
well-known Flair Models 1/4 scale kit of parts. the silver and yellow. slide transfer paper, applied in the same
Looks like you could climb in the back cockpit.

On a slow fly-by Alan’s Tigger really looks the business!
1: Scale Man: Alan Glover and his highly detailed DH 82a Tiger Moth. 2: Scrap box to the rescue! Fine venturi and convincing hinge, screw, rivet
and fastener details. Note strut fairings. 3: Lots of superbly accomplished scale detailing on the Tiger: doors, hinges, luggage compartment,
flying wires, cockpits. Luvverly! 4: Alan was helped by his old instructor Frank Ashcroft with the instrument panel. Frank flew Tigers in the RAF.
5: I love this guy, especially his insouciant moustache. 6: Alan hand-brushed the roundels in Humbrol paints, after first marking them out with an
ink compass, a la Gordon Whitehead’s seminal scale book. 7: Anti-stall strake and intricate cable runs. 8: Scale wet grass on the scale tyres!
Nicely detailed wheel hubs. 9: 1/4 scale undercarriage built from a kit of parts from Flair. Functional and practical.
manner as Airfix plastic kit decals. Frank was the chap who, years ago, presentation. Alan painted the pilot. Most
taught Alan to fly model aircraft his local of the other scale details are made, as
Fuel proofer club site. Serendipitously, Frank is an most modellers do, from scrap box odds
The whole airframe was given several thin ex-RAF pilot who flew Tiger Moths, and ends.
coats of Flair fuel proofer. Chipmunks, and Vampires during his
service. The model pilot is an original Items of note
Scale details quarter-scale full length Pete’s Pilot, The only real departure from the original
The cockpit instruments were made from bought from the man himself many years kit is that that Alan made the cowl side
scratch by club mate Frank Ashcroft. ago when he gave a club night panels hinged in order to gain access to
4 6 8
5 7 9

10 11 14
12 13
10: Trademark DH corrugated petrol tank on the upper wing. Note sight gauge. 11: Lower aileron details. 12: Rib-taping and finely finished
flying surfaces. 13: More scrap detailing: convincing pitot tubes. 14: Beautifully executed wires, terminations, and struttery.
the fuel filler and on-board glow system. If strength and the Rx battery condition [6v have ever had. It is very predictable and
you look closely, you will be able to see Eneloop pack] during flight. Any problems docile right down to the stall, which itself is
Alan’s piano hinge, which is a work of art. are highlighted by an audible warning just a gentle drop of the nose. It will land
alarm on the Tx. at walking pace and performs very nice
Radio three-pointers. That said, it is capable of
The radio is a 2.4 JR XG11 set. The most Pilot’s notes: Alan relates.. anything that the full size will do as
useful feature of this is the telemetry, “The model is actually one of the nicest regards its aerobatic performance. Rolls,
which allows Alan to monitor the signal flying models, scale or otherwise, that I loops, reversals and stall turns are all very
Alan’s model is built from the Duncan Hutson kit.

easy. Most of the flying including take off

is done at between 50% and 75% throttle
with more only needed for loops, stall
turns etc. For smooth ‘tidy’ flying the
model needs quite a lot of coordinated
rudder during turns, but then, so does the
real thing. I would have to list this as my
favourite scale model. As such, I probably
don’t fly it as often as I should as I prefer
to only fly it during calm weather. The
model will cope with breezy weather, it’s
just that I most enjoy watching it waft
around in light breezes when it can be
flown in a realistic manner on low a
throttle setting when it looks and sounds
just right”. I
The Tiger Moth looks very pretty
in a moderate bank at a
good height.
Model Specification
Model: DH Tiger Moth
Scale: 1/4
Wingspan: 88”
Wt: 19.5lbs
Engine: Laser 180 30cc four-stroke glow
Prop: Graupner18”x 6”
15: Alan modified the cowling to hinge in the correct scale fashion to give access to the engine and the glow system. 16: Mouldings were in
the Duncan Hutson kit, but Alan’s detailing makes them come alive. 17: Alan modified the engine cowling. Great hinge and rivet detail on the
now working cowl. 18: Laser 30cc four stroke glow engine is fully hidden in the cowl. Exhaust exits in the scale position, too. 19: Note Angel One
Five logo and surface detailing. 20: Graceful and distinctive DH rudder.
15 16 17
18 19 20

TECHNO SCALE DEC 13 Tony OK 15/10/13 16:37 Page 2
Techno Modelling by Mike Evatt
Techno Scale etex.org at www.jetex.org exists up to 18”, built light. This should be used in
Mike Evatt sco
over 5,000 gliders in over 75 different types.
J to serve the world-wide

community of enthusiasts for
models powered by micro
rocket motors, especially those
exemplified by the old Jetex series of
engines. Their mission is to be the premier
Web resource for information and advice
conjunction with F515 timer and a Li Poly
battery. This tiny unit is 35mm in length
has an outside diameter 26mm and
weighs 8.8gm.
Dave Maskell, the proprietor of Flywize
Models, has been involved with modelling
since 1968. All these years of modelling
If you consider another 75 plus pre-war
designs there are almost unlimited
possibilities for an interesting prototype.
Noggin End is a small friendly company
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to model engineers and hobbyists, but
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about such models and the motors that prompted himto start up a small but needs a small quantity of material. They
power them. Additionally, in their Forum personal business catering to fellow like a challenge, so if you require strange
Archive you can take advantage of the enthusiasts. Check out his website at or unusual material, why not give them a
extensive collection of the past www.flywizemodels.com The ASW 28-18 is call. They do very good 12in length
contributions of fellow aeromodellers, a 1/4 scale, all fiberglass sailplane of the bundles of Aluminium Grade 6082/HE30:
historians, scientists and assorted other ASW-28 Alexander Schleicher GmBh. The Medium strength manganese alloy with
micro rocket enthusiasts from all around model contains installed retract gear and excellent corrosion resistance. It has the
the world, as they discuss everything from detailed cockpit. Whether you prefer highest strength of the 6000 series alloys.
how to build and fly model jets to thermal soaring or slope soaring, this Check them out at
collecting vintage motors. There is also an model is made for you. http://nogginend.com
extensive plans archive! Scale soaring enthusiast Zbigniew www.windsockdatafilespecials.co.uk is
It is sad that there appears to be no Michalczyk hosts an excellent website at the official web address of Albatros
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motors. So how can we fly those delightful are tired of seeing ASH, ASW, DG, Ka6 largest range of WWI aeroplane books
scale jet models of yesteryear? All is not gliders on your flying field, this site is for and journals for modellers and enthusiasts.
lost as the SAMS Models website at you. If you are familiar with Foka, Swift, Fox If you’re a fan of classic 1914-1918 aircraft
www.samsmodels.com reveals. Convert or Wilga and would like to know more such as the Albatros, Bristol Fighter, BE2c,
to EDF! The F570n KP 24mm Bore Electric about other less known Polish gliders and Fokker, Gotha, Nieuport, Pfalz, Roland,
Ducted Fan can be used to power many soaring related aircraft then log-on now. Rumpler, SE5a, Sopwith Camel, Pup and
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Scale soaring enthusiast Zbigniew Noggin End supplies metals and plastics to Albatros Productions, the home of the worlds’
Michalczyk hosts an excellent website. model engineers and hobbyists. largest range of WWI aeroplane books.

TECHNO SCALE DEC 13 Tony OK 15/10/13 16:37 Page 3
scours cyberspace for more TechnoScale Topics...

site for you! Written, illustrated and presented. These prints address subjects modeller of R/C aircraft since 1986 and
produced by experts in their field they rarely seen, but nonetheless are has been very successful in bringing to life
offer the finest references available, exceptional flying models. Many unique replica scale models from WWII including
whether you’re interested in aces, WW-I and WW-II subjects can be found Hawker Typhonn and Tempost, plus Airchi
camouflage and markings, squadron here. Chief test pilot Mike Midkiff is D3A ‘Val’. His 1970s-era Yak 50 aerobatic
histories, technical data on aircraft ,and fascinated by the results that can be aircraft is to 1/4 scale. spans 94ins and is a
modelling WWI aeroplanes, they cover achieved when engineering principles are cost effective and easy-to-construct intro-
it all! applied to model aircraft concept and duction into large scale models. The flights
The website at design. Take a peek at their web presence of the prototype also prove it’s a very
www.nurflugel.com/Nurflugel/Fauvel is a at www.ozarkmodelaviation.com good flier with a very low stall speed but
transport of delight!It will introduce you to The homepage of Schübeler Composite will also perform all the aerobatics as per
some rather unusual flying machines, the - manufacturer of high quality electric fans the full size. This design features a flat
‘flying wings’ created by Charles Fauvel, and GFK airframes resides at bottom wing and the model can be
best known in aeronautical circles as the www.schuebeler-jets.com They can supply glassed/painted or be covered in film.
designer of tailless type gliders. Yet his life suberb EDFs! With a fan swept area of Flightline Graphics at
was equally rich in many other events 94cm and a diameter of 120mm the www.flightlinegraphics.com are suppliers
which marked the development of French DS-94-DIA HDT is currently their biggest and of Standard and Custom paint mask
soaring, and which is evoked throughout most powerful ducted fan. This fan can systems for scale models and full size
this biography. The AV-10 shown in the efficiently convert power inputs of up to aircraft. Firstly, of interest to WWI model
screen-shot was the first airplane-only 5.7KW into a very high thrust impulse - thus builders are a set of Axial rubdown decals
design of Fauvel to be flown. being an ideal alternative for turbines of for propellers. They are available is 1/3
Ozark Model Aviation is based in Hurst, the 80N-class. All ducted fans of the scale and 1/4 scale. Because there are
Texas USA and is a business dedicated to DS-XX-DIA HDT series come fully differences in opinion, as to what colour
the advancement and promotion of free assembled, finely-balanced and quality- the decals should be they are supplied
flight scale modelling by offering flight checked, you simply have to install your with a white, cream, silver, or gold
tested scale model blueprints, model kits, motor and the system is ready to fly. background. Not only that they can
and the ‘right colour’ tissue that works with I enjoyed re-visiting Chris Willis’ website at supply Paint Masks for insignia, Dry
many of the colour schemes of the models www.williswarbirds.co.uk Chris has been a Rubdown Decals and Stencil Masks. I
The fascinating “flying wings” created by Ozark Model Aviation is dedicated to Schübeler Composite is a manufacturer of
Charles Fauvel. promotion of free flight scale. high quality electric ducted fans.
That’s all there is time for

from me this month so tap
that rodent and if you find
something out there of
interest that might be
good to share, email me at:
[email protected]
Chris Willis’ Yak 50 is a cost effective and easy- Flightline Graphics are suppliers of Custom
to-construct introduction into large warbirds. paint mask systems for scale models and more!

FOKKER DR1 PART 1 TONY OK 29/10/13 11:18 Page 2
FULL-SIZE FREE PLAN
PART 1:
THE TRIPLANE LAYOUT MAKES THIS
APPEAR A QUITE COMPACT MODEL,
BUT AT 1/6TH SCALE, IT REQUIRES
THREE FULL SIZE PLAN SHEETS
TO COMPLETE, SO THIS FEATURE
WILL RUN OVER THREE PARTS WITH
PARTS 2 & 3 IN OUR JANUARY
AND FEBRUAY 2014 ISSUES
ightly or wrongly, the Fokker could have any colour you liked, really intended as a museum quality
R Triplane is probably the most

famous aircraft of WW1. Even
non-aviation oriented people
have heard of it, and if asked to
name a WW1 aircraft, this is probably the
one they will come up with. Needless to say,
when they think of the type, it is invariably all
including black.
The story behind the model

The story of how we arrived at the model
you will see here is, as is often the case,
somewhat convoluted. It all started when
Darrin was gifted a true scale kit from
display model.)
Anyway, after spending a lot of time, effort
and money doing his usual high class build
on the model, it was time for the test flight.
The model took off nicely, but proved very
reluctant to climb. When the first turn was
attempted, the model did its level best to
red and they are often surprised to hear that Arizona Model Aircrafters. This particular destroy itself by attacking the ground.
it came in any other colour. Darrin, it would model featured an aluminium tube fuselage, Rather than spend even more time and
seem, has gone out of his way to prove that that ultimately had to be replaced with money repairing a model that obviously
other colours were in fact available. Really, it dowel if the model were to be used as a wasn’t going to fly in the way Darrin had
wouldn’t be too far from the truth to say you radio control scale model. (I believe it is expected (if at all) he gave up on it. But he

FOKKER
Dr.1
A 1/6 scale, 47” (1198 mm) wingspan, electric powered
model designed by Peter Rake, with the prototype
model built by Darrin Covington.
from sight and allow scale-like control runs.
To this end, the structure is a little more
refined than my usual designs and the radio
installation is somewhat more cramped.
a streamline profile section.
For the rudder, this is quite straightforward;
a couple of cap strips at the rib positions,
some strip to allow the hinge line to follow
None of that prevents you building a simpler the overall shape and a couple of cut parts
model with wing mounted aileron servos around the horn.
and more conveniently placed equipment. The tailplane gets a little more
Unlike most of my designs, which tend to get complicated because we need it to be to
‘scaled-up’, you have the option to ‘scale the correct section, but still seat accurately
down’ this one into a simpler model than the on the flat rear fuselage. To this end, the
one built by Darrin. Please don’t cover it in capping strips are added at the points
glossy bright red film though! indicated on the plan, parts T4 fit around the
cable exits on the upper surface and parts
Onto the build T6 provide a fit against the fuselage sides.
Let’s get you off to a gentle start by Bear in mind that keeping the tail end light
building the tail surfaces. In order to end is VERY important with short nosed types of
up with roughly scale sections for the tail which, the Fokker Dr.1 is a prime example.
You really would be hard pressed

to tell Darrin’s model from a real
Fokker Dr.1 in this shot.
elected to salvage as much of the scale

Here we see the tail surface outline laminations The basic rudder core being built over the
details and fittings as possible and then
securely strapped to a substantial former. plan. Darrin uses a magnetic building board,
approached me to design a model that so no pins.
would stand a better chance of flying - all of
which just goes to show how truly desperate surfaces these are built in two basic Therefore, if all you want is a Sunday flyer
he was for a model of the Fokker Dr.1. stages. Once you have the laminated type model, the capping and additional
The original model had been accurate-to- outlines prepared, the basic structures are parts may be omitted and the edges simply
scale (although I believe based on built over the plan and allowed to dry rounded off. Always remember that light
inaccurate drawings), and Darrin wanted completely. Then, because the surfaces models fly better than heavy ones and a
this new model to be made to look just as on the full-size aircraft weren’t actually of small amount of weight saved at the tail can
accurate. This meant keeping the cockpit flat-plate section, cap strips and often mean saving six or seven times that
area clear of obstructions and positioning all additional cut parts are added to each amount at the nose - needed to counter the
the equipment where it would be hidden side and the finished structures sanded to tail weight when it comes to balancing the

The tailplane with all the capping pieces added. Just a few cut parts Those same tail surfaces, after the shaping is done.
still to be fitted.
model. A reduction of half an ounce at the scale locations and the wing section is as if you want to build the wing as a single unit,
tail could well mean a model that ends up accurate as I could get it without making for that shouldn’t make obtaining long enough
four ounces lighter overall. an unduly complicated build. wood a major issue. If, however you can’t
I realise this may sound like preaching to Since all three wings need the tip pieces get it (and that’s the premise I was working
the converted, but it’s only too easy to get curved to follow the under camber, you on when I designed the model) the plan
carried away when detailing your model. might as well do them all at the same time. shows the wing built using separate
Darrin’s first Dr.1 was over a pound heavier By the time you’re ready for them, they will components for the individual panels and
than this one - and it showed. be dry and already curved, so you don’t ply braces at the joins. Just make up the
end up building in any stresses at the wing spars and what have you first, and then pro-
Top wing tips. Soak them, pack as required and ceed to build the wing in one piece - or not,
Moving along in easy stages, the top wing is clamp down the ends to produce the as the mood takes you.
probably the next thing we should tackle. It required curve - then start building wings to Begin by pinning down the leading and
looks relatively complicated, but isn’t really - which they can be attached once dry. trailing edge pieces and sliding all the ribs
as long as you study the plan and sort out Because this isn’t the largest model onto the spars and arranging the spacing to
what goes where before you begin building. imaginable, and the span is quite match that shown on the drawing. Don’t
Once again, the model was designed to condensed due to the triplane layout, none glue them to the spar yet or, if you do, use a
result in a very accurate looking replica of the spars or leading edge pieces are slow setting glue that will allow plenty of time
Fokker Dr.1, so the spars are in pretty much more than 42” long from tip to tip. Therefore, for adjustment.
This is how the tail surfaces fit onto the

almost completed fuselage. Yes, the
cockpit area is beginning to look
quite ‘spiffy’.

CUT PARTS
SET FOR THE
FOKKER
Darrin decided to get the centre ribs securely set up before
Dr1
Get straight down to construction without delay!
This month’s full size free plan feature is supported
adding the remaining ribs.
by a laser-cut set of ready-to-use balsa and
plywood components. This provides all the parts
that, otherwise, you would need to trace out onto
the wood before cutting out.
IT DOES NOT INCLUDE STRIP

AND SHEET MATERIAL OR
SHAPED WIRE PARTS
Price £85.00
plus carriage: £11.50 (UK); Europe £26.00
Order set CUT482

Shipping Note: For shipping to destinations outside the UK and
Europe, you will be charged our standard flat-rate price of £49.
This covers most destinations and secures your order with us.
However, we will contact you accordingly with an accurate
total shipping charge prior to dispatch and either issue a
refund or a PayPal money request for the balance.
The basic top wing all assembled over the plan. Note how Visit our secure website:
chunky the leading edge spar looks.
www.flyingscalemodels.com
You’ll notice that the aileron spars and leading edges are
to order yours
listed as being cut from sheet rather than stock sizes of strip.
That’s because the wing doesn’t quite touch the board in this
area and you’ll need to make up the slight gap so that your
wood can fit flat against the building board. It avoids the risk
of building in warps and this is another reason why building
the wing as a single unit is a good idea. As you can see from
the photos, that is how Darrin built his top wing. As a
cabinetmaker he is a stickler for accuracy of build, so if it’s
good enough for him, it must be the best way to go about it.
Apply glue to the leading edge, aileron spar and trailing
edge where the ribs go, and position you spar/rib assembly
accurately over the plan. Make any final adjustments,
including ensuring that the centre section strut position ribs are
precisely at right angles to the board before pinning it all
down and leaving to dry.
Build the ailerons and fit the interplane (i/p) strut locating
‘ribs’ and once again check that they are at precise right
angles to the board. If the struts aren’t a smooth fit into their
sockets that might well induce warps as you assemble the
model, so put in the little extra time needed to ensure this
area is right.
By now, those tip pieces should be dry and nicely curved,
so you might as well glue them, and their supporting gussets
in place.
While the wing is still pinned firmly to the board, glue in place
the ply leading edge sheeting. Study the sections to see how
it attaches to the spar and not that you will need to trim the
i/p strut socket slightly to get it to fit that area. I felt that the
‘tabs’ on those parts would ensure your strut sockets aligned
properly with the spars, and getting the struts to fit accurately
was more important than having to do a little trimming
later on.
Now you can remove the wing from the board and install
the aileron cable entry and exit tubes as shown on the plan. Order direct from:- ADH Publishing, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane,
Then you can spend a pleasant (?) hour or so trimming and Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK. Tel: 01525 222573/
sanding everything to shape ready for covering. [email protected].

Just a few pointers

A few notes are in order at this point, so here
goes. Don’t be tempted to replace the
aileron leading edge with balsa, even hard
balsa. Once shaped there isn’t very much of
it and by the time hinge slots are made,
those counterbalanced wingtips are likely
to put quite a strain on the outer hinge
position. Originally, the plan did show balsa
for those parts, but it did indeed cause
problems. Both aileron leading edges
fractured at the outer edge of the hinge slot
- you have been warned!!! If you think your
Dr.1 may see a lot of ‘combat action’ I
would suggest you make them from thicker
bass - or an even harder wood. The bass
shown worked just fine, but Darrin doesn’t
tend to stress his models too much.
Because there’s ample space for a servo
between the spars, the scale linkages aren’t
essential. They add realism to the finished
model, but do take a bit of setting up if they
are to work correctly. A dummy (elastic
cord) top cable and a pushrod below the
wing, to a wing mounted servo (one in each
The intricate, but not overly complicated structure is evident here. Note Darrin’s use of litho
wing) is a viable alternative. It’s easier to plate to form the cockpit decking and centre wing fairings.
install (as long as you remembered to cut
lead holes in the ribs before you built the how you want to build your model. strut, adding a pair of lugs to allow the wing
wing) and allows differential to be dialled in. Once set up and working correctly, cable to be screwed in place. Similar brass strip
Darrin wanted his model to be a one- linkages are much better left well alone. The tabs at the i/p strut positions would allow the
piece affair, and at less than 48” span, that’s last thing you need is to have to set them up wing to be bolted to the strut. The one thing
quite practical. However, the assembled every time you take the model flying. you absolutely must remember is just how
model is also over 19” tall, which may cause Turnbuckles in the fuselage-to-wing run are narrow those mounting points are. That
transport and storage problems. To ease this, an option, but there’s always the risk that alone makes it extremely difficult to ensure
I would suggest that you make at least the they will undo in flight. Ailerons that suddenly the wing goes on at precisely the same
top wing removable. This isn’t too difficult if no longer ‘ail’ are of no use to anyone. incidence angle each time. The choice is
you have opted for wing-mounted servos, To make the top wing removable I would yours, either a one-piece model you know
but is hardly practical if you are using cable propose a slight modification to the brass will retain all the right angles, or a removable
linkages. Bear this in mind while deciding strip the wing seats on at the centre section one that may not do. I
Stencil marking, dummy engine and very realistic ‘streaky

olive’ finish make this an absolutely stunning model.

FOKKER DR.1 COLOURS Tony OK 17/10/13 11:50 Page 2
Fokker Dr.1 FLYING COLOURS

FOKKER DR.1 COLOURS Tony OK 17/10/13 11:50 Page 3

FAIRCHILD MODEL TONY OK 17/10/13 12:02 Page 2
FSM PLANS SERVICE CONSTRUCTION FEATURE
FAIRCHILD F.
ELEGANT 1:4.9 SCALE. 88.9” (2286mm) FOR 1.00 - 1.20 CU.IN. ENGINES. DESIGNED BY PHILIP
y first model of the Fairchild small diesel engine. This proved to be a The version featured here however has
M Argus was a 36” span

rubber powered model, in
1949. This was the radial
engined machine as
opposed to the in-line engined version
modelled here. This model was never
finished, the part-built airframe being
wise choice and the model was flown
most successfully for over twenty years
before being sold.
Later, when my aeromodelling
interest moved to R/C, I wanted,
for a long time, to build a radio-
controlled version of the Fairchild
been built as the Ranger, in-line engined
type. Be careful though; with the longer
nose of this version the model could turn
out to be nose heavy. There was no need
to add any nose weight to the radial
engined prototype in order to get the
centre of gravity in the right place, but for
squashed when an ironing board F.24 but it wasn’t until 1998 that I the Ranger, it might be worth moving the
fell onto it. Early in the 1960s I finally got a model into the air. This battery further back into the rear cockpit
managed to produce another was to a scale of 1:4.8, giving it a area for the 24R version.
model from the same Eddie wingspan of 90” and a most reliable
Riding plan, but rather Laser 100 four-stroke engine that just Construction
than power the model fitted within the radial cowl powered The model uses standard model
with rubber, I fitted a the prototype. aeroplane built-up construction methods

F.24R
LIP S. KENT
and materials. I like to get all the formers sheet spars for the elevator and glue two of the ribs. Note also, that there is a
and wing ribs cut out before I start of them to one side of the elevator cores. laminated rib at the point between the
building. The technique that I use is to Add the 1/16” ribs and tips and the 5/16” aileron and flap that is the same as the
trace out the parts and then prick through sheet pieces at the inboard end of the template rib. On the prototype model,
shapes onto the balsa. I also like to make elevator. Sand the units to the correct both servos that drive the ailerons and
a start on something that lets me see a section and repeat on the other side. flaps were fitted at the root of each wing
result early on in the construction Both elevators should be symmetrical with access being afforded by removing
programme. With this in mind we will start in section. the dummy fuel tanks in each wing. The
off with the construction of the tail unit. The rudder is built in exactly the same aileron servos could be mounted further
way, but the ribs are from 1/8” balsa. outboard in line with the hinges. The
Tail unit The tailplane is built in two halves directly choice is yours.
The rudder and elevator are built on a over the plan. Cut the 1/4” spars and pin Pin the bottom spar over the wing plan,
1/16” sheet balsa core. Cut these over the plan. Add the ribs, tips, ply slide the ribs on to the rear spar, and glue
the four 5/16” braces and the 1/8” sheet false leading this unit in place. Add the false leading
edge, then sand to the section shown edge, the ply trailing edge, the aileron
and cover with 1/16” light balsa. Make a spar and top spars. Note that the aileron
second half and, when both are spar is made up of two pieces of sheet
completed, join together. Add the 1/4” balsa. I found it easier to carve this to
sheet leading edges and soft balsa shape before fitting; the section at the
capping for the tips, sand to the wing rib shows the shape.
section shown. I made the laminated wing tips by
The fin is constructed in a similar manner wrapping four glued strips of 1/16”x 1/4”
to the tailplane. Build this in two halves, round a former made from 1/4” plywood.
cover with 1/16” sheet and join together. Cut the strips slightly longer than required
To complete the structure, add the 1/4” and glue them together using white PVA
sheet balsa. leading edges, then shape glue. Place the glued strips onto the
and sand to the correct section. I find that former and fasten in position with a strip of
balsa cement is the best adhesive for this masking tape at the middle point. Work
particular job as it sands down easily round the tip, pulling the glued strips down
without leaving a glue ridge. onto the former with further pieces of
All the hinges used on the model are the masking tape. When this task is
Robart steel pinned type and arrange- completed leave overnight to set before
ments should be made to accommodate removing the formed tip from the pattern.
these within the structure. Note also the Fit the laminated tip in place and fill
positions of the hinge centre lines. A between ribs and spars with 3/32” sheet
14swg piano wire elevator joiner is used balsa. Note the shape of the wing tip
with a 1/16” brass or mild steel horn silver when viewed from the front when
soldered in place. A commercial item positioning the lamination. This part of the
may be substituted, but note the angle construction might be easier with the wing
of the horn. removed from the building board.
This is also a good time to fit the wire
Wings locating dowels in place. Fill between the
Cut a plywood template for the wing Rib front spars with 1/4” balsa and add the
no.3 but without the cutout for the flaps. 1/16” ply filling pieces. Set the wing up
All the slots for the spars, allowances for with 1 “ dihedral under the last full width
the sheeting and leading edge should be rib and then epoxy the wires in place.
incorporated into the template. Block in around the wires with bass, ply or
Cut 24 ribs to the template from 1/8” spruce. After the tip is glued in place,
sheet balsa. The ribs can then be cut return the wing to the board and add the
down to make Rib no.3 with the flap cut 1/16” sheet vertical webbing, the 1/16”
out on Rib no.4 for the ailerons. Copy the plywood mountings for the strut fittings
shapes of the remaining ribs onto tracing and the top leading edge sheeting.
paper and transfer the shapes onto the Finally, fit the capping strips onto the ribs
required size of sheet balsa by pricking and the 1/16” sheet that is on the aileron
through with a pin. spar; note the direction of the grain here.
Using a Rib no. 3 as a template, draw With the wing, for the last time removed
out the doublers onto 1/16” plywood. Cut from the board, repeat the sequence on
out and bond to the ribs using epoxy. the underside of the wing. The ailerons are
Note that the doublers fit onto each side built separately directly over the plan. Do

Basic fuselage sides made up from balsa strip, showing Start of the fuselage box assembly, commenced by joining the sides
0.4mm ply reinforcement gussets. with former.
with a bass or spruce spar and ribs. I gave is complete, fit the remaining formers and
the completed units a full coating of stringers. Check the position of the
laminating epoxy to prevent any warping stringers by eye before notching out the
- it seemed to work as I have had no formers. The doors are built on a bass or
trouble in this respect. Again I have used spruce frame and covered in O.4mm
Robart hinges, but set outside the flap. The plywood. The hinges are the Robart type,
wing section drawing gives the details. The similar to the ones used on the flaps.
original model used some vacformed The tail wheel is a steerable unit and this
covers for the hinges but these can be should be fitted before the model is
made from balsa. covered. Fit all the bellcranks and push
rods for the elevators, rudder and tail
Fuselage wheel at this point.
The fuselage is a box structure filled out The fuel tank box should be fitted before
with formers and stringers. Build two the nose area is covered with 1/8” balsa
Underside of the wing at the position of the
aileron. fuselage sides directly over the plan. Use sheeting. The tank is accessible from the
spruce or bass for the longerons and balsa front, but the engine will have to be
not omit the thin ply gussets at the trailing for the uprights and cross members. Note removed. The cowl is made up of a balsa
edge. Note how the hinges for the ailerons that the fuselage section forward of the front section with sheet balsa planking
are extended with aluminium tube and wing is built separately and fitted, over O.4mm plywood that joins the front
where the centre lines of the hinges are complete with engine bearers, after the and rear. Litho plate panels can be
positioned - it is most important that these rear box is assembled. added after shaping the balsa covering.
centres are in the correct place for the Make up and fit the undercarriage Consult photographs of the prototype
operation of the ailerons. mounting pieces and the wing fixing tubes being modelled for details of these panels
The flaps are made from 1/16” plywood to the basic box structure. When this work and the exhaust outlets as they do vary. A
The wing before covering, showing the

Robart hinges fitted in extension tubes.
The basic wing structure complete, before The tailplane and elevator prior to The strut and main undercarriage assembly.
addition of tip components. covering. Both are made up over a 1/16” This is a prominent feature of the aircraft, so
balsa centre-line plate. it’s important to get it right.

The prototype model has opening doors The frames for the rear cabin windows.
for access to wing bolts.
The wing root showing the servo access through the dummy fuel tanks. The covered wing tip.
The covered fin and rudder. Note the rib tape on the rudder. The covered tailplane, Solartex for the elevators, tissue for the stabilizer.
fibreglass cowl could be used and I would patterns for the parts before using the deal to the realism, it’s up to you, the builder.
suggest that it might be moulded over a clear plastic material. Small screws were The original model was covered in an
blue foam pattern using glass cloth used to fix the panels in place with a iron-on heat-shrink fabric. This was given a
and epoxy. bead of epoxy and micro balloons faired coat of shrinking dope before the rib
in with a finger dipped in acetone where tapes and stitching were added, again
Main undercarriage the windscreen is attached to the nose using dope as an adhesive. The model
The undercarriage shown on the drawing area. This fairing should be masked off was primed with a cellulose primer and
is as fitted to the Swiss full size aircraft before the five-minute epoxy and micro painted with auto cellulose sprayed on.
HB-ERO. This is without fairings around the balloon mixture is run in. The lettering can be from trim film or
oleos and the lower part of the struts in its painted on, again use whatever you are
early form. These fairings, now fitted on the Details happy with. A two-pack fuel proofer
full siz aircraft, can easily be added from The detailing on the model will depend on completes the finishing process.
balsa and thin aluminium sheet. the prototype modelled and just what the
The window glazing is added after the builder wants. Simple features like the Flying
model has been covered. Cut paper navigation lights and aerial add a great Make sure that the balance-point is in the

R
F
av
S
Do
correct position before attempting to fly the model took off and the dihedral on the port Subsequent flights have been a delight.
model. There was no problem getting this in wing began to increase at an alarming The model goes where you want it to go
the right place on the original model. Make rate. I realised what was wrong and made and is as steady as a rock. The Ranger is not
sure that all the struts are attached and a heavy landing that resulted in some intended for aerobatics and I would not
bolted in place. damage to the undercarriage and cowl, suggest that such are tried. This model is at
In my excitement on the maiden flight of but it could have been much worse. There its best flying accurate course manoeuvres,
the radial engined version, I somehow were no problems on the second flight with doing the odd touchand-go and nice slow,
omitted the small screws that hold the struts the model flying without any great alter- low, flypasts.
in place at the undercarriage/strut joint. The ation to the trims. The flaps also add interest to the flying
The main undercarriage, Further view of the dummy fuel tank access panels on View of the cockpit windscreen on Gary Protheroe’s
viewed fron the front. the wing upper surface. Note the filler cap and vent. prototype model. Map tucked into the corner is a
nice touch of realism.
Dummy pitot head on the left wing The wing flaps in the deployed position. Note Close-up of the wing strut and main
leading edge. Robart ‘Hinge Point’ hinges arranged to undercarriage anchor point on the fuselage.
achieve the required action.

CUT PARTS
FAIRCHILD SET FOR THE
RANGER
TWO SHEET plan
Full size copies of this
Scale Models Plans
available from Flying
Service, ADH Publis
Doolittle Lane, Totter
hin
nh
g, Doolittle Mill,
oe , Bedfordshire, FAIRCHILD
LU6 1QX. Tel 01525 222
enquiries@adhpub
Price £19.50 (Plan 25

lish
573
ing
3) plus p&p
.com
RANGER
Get straight down to construction without delay!
.00;
(U.K £2.50; Europe £4 This month’s full size free plan feature is supported
Rest or World £6.00 . by a laser-cut set of ready-to-use balsa and
plywood components. This provides all the parts
that, otherwise, you would need to trace out onto
the wood before cutting out.
IT DOES NOT INCLUDE STRIP

AND SHEET MATERIAL OR
SHAPED WIRE PARTS
Price £99.00
plus carriage: £11.50 (UK); Europe £26.00
Order set CUT253

Shipping Note: For shipping to destinations outside the UK and
Europe, you will be charged our standard flat-rate price of £49.
programme. You will probably find that some down elevator This covers most destinations and secures your order with us.
However, we will contact you accordingly with an accurate
will need to be mixed in with the flap movement. It is also a
total shipping charge prior to dispatch and either issue a
good idea to mix the aileron and rudder controls to give more refund or a PayPal money request for the balance.
realistic turns. I have not tried a gyro on any of my models, but
it is a fact that one on the rudder might be a help on paved Visit our secure website:
runways. Remember that gyros are illegal on competition
models though. The Argus radioal engine prototype model has www.flyingscalemodels.com
done well in Scale competitionsin the past and there’s no to order yours
reason that the in-line Ranger should not perform equally well. I
The dummy access panels for the wing tanks on the wing
upper surface.
Order direct from:- ADH Publishing, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane,

Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK. Tel: 01525 222573/
View of the inverted Laser 150 with the cowl panels removed. [email protected].

FAIRCHILD TYPE HISTORY Tony OK 16/10/13 10:31 Page 2
TYPE HISTORY
FAIRCHILD
ONE THE MOST ELEGANT LIGHT AIRCRAFT OF THE PRE-WW2 ERA MAKES A FINE MODELLING
he Fairchild Aircraft Corporation Company was innovative, producing the
T had its beginnings back in 1924,

established as a parent company
for founder Sherman Fairchild’s
many aviation interests. The
first American aircraft to include a fully
enclosed cockpit and to utilise a hydraulic
damped main undercarriage.
Besides designing and building aircraft,

F.24
by the Great Depression during the early GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
1930s, as airline purchases disappeared.
Thus, Fairchild attention turned to Crew: 1
developing a reliable and rugged small Capacity: 3 passengers
aircraft for personal and business use. Their Length: 23 ft 10 in (7.27 m)
first entry into this field was the Fairchild 22, a Wingspan: 36 ft 4 in (11.08 m)
parasol-wing, two seat, open cockpit touring Height: 7 ft 8 in (2.34 m)
and trainer monoplane, initially with a radial Wing area: 193 sq ft (17.9 m2)
engine, but later with inline inverted
LING SUBJECT powerplant, designed and produced by the PERFORMANCE
Kreider-Reisner division of Fairchild. It was well
Fairchild pioneered the commercial use of received and led directly to the Model 24 Max speed: 124 mph; 200 km/h)
aerial photography. Some of its first aircraft with fully enclosed cockpit/cabin area and Range: 404 nmi (465 mi;
like the Fairchild FC-2 were originally high wing configuration. 748 km)
designed for that purpose, because the The F.24 gained rapid popularity in the Service ceiling: 12,700 ft (3,900 m)
cameras of those days were extremely early 1930s, noted for its pleasant handling
heavy and required stable, steady flight at characteristics and roomy interior. Having
altitude that was high by the standards of adapted many features from the
that era. In 1935 Fairchild was comissioned automotive industry (expansion-shoe brakes
by the US government to undertake aerial and wind-down cabin windows), the aircraft
photograph surveys of the United States to was also affordable and easy to maintain.
track soil erosion and its effects. In production continuously from 1932 to
Like all organisations involved in the 1948, the aircraft remained essentially
aviation field, Fairchild Aircraft was hard hit unchanged aerodynamically and internally,

except for the simple addition of extra In 1936, the US Navy

passenger seating and optional equipment. ordered Model 24s
The first models were equipped with only two designated as GK-1
seats, but in 1933 a third seat was installed and JK-1 research and
and by 1938, a fourth was added and a instrument trainers. The
minor airframe revision was made in 1938 type was also used by
with the redesign of the vertical fin and the US Army as a light
re-designation from C8 to F.24G onwards. transport and by the
Fairchild offered the choice of two US Coast Guard, with
powerplants, the Warner Scarab and the designation J2-K.
Fairchild’s own 200 hp Ranger series in the The Amercian Civil Air
F24C-8-D, E and F. Initially the 1932 model Patrol operated many
Fairchild 24C-8-B used a reliable and popular Fairchild UC-61/24s
Most F.24s delivered
Warner 125 hp radial engine, and the and some aircraft to the British militar
engine version and y during WW2 were
Fairchild 24C-8-C used the Warner 145 hp were fitted with two a number of these the radial
civil register. found their way ont
o the U.K.
radial. American Cirrus and Menasco Pirate 100 pound bombs for
inline engines were also occasionally used in what became successful missions against
some earlier Fairchild 24s. Later models such German U-boats off the east coast of the
as the popular 24Ws upgraded to the 165 hp United States in the early stages of the Postwar
Warner Super Scarab. Second World War. Following the end of WW2 in 1945, examples
Designed for operations from relatively Under Lend Lease. Close to 500 Warner of the F.24 were used by small air charter
unimproved grass airfields, the sturdy Scarab Fairchild 24s/C-61s were supplied to operators for short distance taxi work and
undercarriage construction used a vertical oil Great Britain, most of these seeing service many were acquired by private pilot owners.
dampened cylinder above the wheel with a service as Argus Is and improved Argus IIs It served with military forces as diverse as
pivoting strut attached to the lower fuselage. and were allocated to the Air Transport Finland, Thailand, Israel, Canada, the United
The result was a complex but undeniably Auxiliary (ATA), the organisation tasked with States and Australia.
solid undercarriage that could absorb large delivery of new and repaired aircraft to The last post-WW2 Fairchild 24 was assem-
amounts of shock and was also adapted front-line combat squadrons. bled in 1948 from a large inventory of left-
for the fitting of twin floats for water-based An additional 306 Ranger powered Argus over parts in Winfield, Kansas. By then, the
operations. IIIs were also used by the ATA. In British serv- Fairchild organisation were back into main-
ice, the majority of the Argus type operated stream aircraft manufacturing, and in the
Sales and service success with the ATA ferrying their aircrew to collect or years that followed were a significant force
In civil use, the aircraft was a quick sales deliver aircraft to and from manufacturers, with such types as the twin-boom military
success with prominent businessmen and Maintenance Units (MU)s and transport C-82 ‘Packet’ and later C-119
Hollywood actors purchasing the aircraft. operational bases. ‘Boxcar’, and C-123 ‘Provider’. I
The first of the Fairchild line, the FC-2. The caption on the back of this ancient photo identifies
this as the first aircraft used by the Mexican Post Office Dept, preparing to take off from
Mexicao City for the inaugural run of a regular air mail service to Tuxcan and Tampico.
AeroDetail series ONL
12 .99
Making a scale model? £ Y
Finding the detail needed to finish
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collection depicts the cut-down fuselage, Shuttleworth Museum’s airworthy example (80 images) detail, nose to tail. (76 images)
bubble cockpit canopy later version. (116 presented in full detail. (100 plus images) Percival Provost CD82
images) Airworthy, preserved example of the RAF North American A36 Invader CD75
Ryan Pt-22 CD90 piston engined basic trainer used in the 1950s. The ground attack variant of the Alison
Supermarine Spitfire MK.IX CD99 US military primary trainer aircraft that served Full detail. (30 images) engined P-51A. Photos, in detail, of the
The most numerous version of the classic with both US Army and Navy, thus providing world’s only airworthy example. (69 images)
Spitfire that turned the tables on the ab-initio flight training for the majority of Percival Mew Gull CD81
Luftwaffe’s Focke Wulf Fw 190. (90 images) US airmen of the WW2 period. A highly Famous 1930s racing and record setting Morane Saulnier MS406 CD74
attractive aircraft. 90 images of the preserved, aircraft that will forever linked with the French WW2 fighter that fought in the Battle of
Supermarine Spitfire MK XIV CD98 airworthy aircraft, hangared at the Shutleworth achievements of British aviator Alex Henshaw. France, 1940. Swiss restored example
2nd of the Griffon-engined Spits (Mk.XII was Collection, Old Warden. (35 images) (92 images)
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FAIRCHILD SCALE DRAWING Tony OK 16/10/13 10:43 Page 2
SCALE DRAWING
FAIRCHILD SCALE DRAWING Tony OK 16/10/13 10:43 Page 3
FAIRCHILD F.24 RANGER Scale 1:40

FAIRCHILD IN DETAIL TONY OK 21/10/13 15:19 Page 2
IN DETAIL
FAIRCHILD F.24
CLOSE-UP SURFACE DETAIL IS WHAT MAKES A MODEL SPECIAL
2 4
1: Nose section showing panel lines and air intakes. 2: Cabin door hinge and the fairing where the wing/undercarraige strut meets
the fuselage. 3 & 4: Two views of the cabin area showing the line of the cabin access door and the window panelling.

5 6 7
8 9 5: View under the engine cowl showing the

exhaust stack, offset the the right. 6: Engine
cowl. showing panel lines and air vent.
7: Further view of the engine cowl underside,
showing panel lines and vents. 8: Nose
close-up, showing air intakes. 9: Two blade
wooden propeller. Tips are metal clad.
10: Metal cuff panel that fairs the tailplane
and rudder joint. 11: Right hand elevator,
viewed from the rear, showing the trip tab.
10
11
12 13 14
15 12: View of the elevator upper surface, again showing the trim tab which is hinged on the top surface.
13: View under the tailplane showing the mounting lugs that attach it to the fuselage. 14: Tail light on the rudder
trailing edge. 15: The tail wheel unit. 16: The wing strut, where it fairs with the fuselage.
17: The wing strut-cum-undercarriage mount, viewed from the rear, is a complicated arrangement.
18: Foot step for access to the cabin. 19: Front view of the wing strut, showing the bare metal face plate around
the leading edge.
16 18 19
17

20 21 22
20 & 21: Two views showing the main undercarriage wheel and strut arrangement. 22: One of the main wheels seen from the opposite side.
23: View of the bottom of the fuselage, showing the mating and fairing of the wing strut and main undercarriage, where these attach to the
fuselage. 24: Fairings over the wing strut attachment points.
23 24
25 27 25: Front and rear wing

struts converge to a single
fuselage attachment point
and are heavily faired with
folded metal sheet.
26: Same position as 25
viewed from a different
angle again reveals folded
sheet metal components.
Note also the bare metal
leading edge face plate.
27: Detail of wing root.
28: Faired hinges to the
wing flap on the wing
underside.
26 28

29 30
29: Wing root at the leading edge.

30: Landing light on the left wing underside,
seen in the retracted position, flush with the
wing surface. Unit is hinged to face forward
when deployed. 31: Wing underside showing
the flap hinge line and one of the faired
hinges. 32: Aileron hinge line viewed under
the wing. Note that the centre hinge is differ-
ent from the other two and is seen, close up
in 33. 34: One of the other two aileron
hinges. 35: Metal panels on the wing upper
surface, viewed from behind the wing
trailing edge. 36: Further view of the aileron
hinge line viewed from under the wing.
37: Wing tip navigation light.
31 32
33 35 36
37
34

ERCOUPE S FOR S Tony OK 23/10/13 11:05 Page 2
SUBJECTS FOR SCALE
Erco Ercoupe 415

Alon Ercoupe
&T
he Ercoupe was the product of
the Engineering & Research
at Washington D.C. in 1930 to

manufacture aircraft industry
machine tools and propellers. Their
development of two-seat all-metal
monoplane light aircraft started in 1937
A neat and tidy looking American light aircraft with an
inviting appearance for scale modellers
Corporation of the U.S.A., formed

Corporation, he designed a smaller
prototype from which the second vrsion,
the Erco 415, was evolved. Both these
aircraft had 55 h.p. Erco engines which
were also prototypes themselves. This
experimental engine was replaced by a
75 h.p. Continental C.75 air cooled,
four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine,
and was connected to the elevators. The
‘spectacle’ shaped wheel at the end of
the column controlled both rudders and
ailerons with a left/right swing of the
‘wheel’, these two controls being
interconnected, (coupled aileron &
rudder) making a rudder bar unnecessary.
In this configuration, the aeroplane, with
with a single-fin low wing machine, that when it became known as the its generous dihedral, could not be spun
led to the launch of the twin finned Ercoupe 415c. or rolled.
Ercoupe 415 in 1940. The concept was to produce an The idea of a single-axis control system
This aircraft was the culmination of a aircraft for the masses, that would be ultra operated through a ‘steering wheel’
series designed by Frederick Weick. During easy to fly and impossible to stall or spin. similar to that of a car was intended to
his period with the National Advisory Control arrangements did away with the appeal to those with no previous flying
Committee for Aeronautics, (NACA - conventional foot-operated rudder bar. experience, who were car drivers and
eventually became NASA -National There was no ‘joystick’, but a semi who, so the logic went, would more easily
Aeronatics & Space Administation), he ‘stearing wheel’ type control column relate to the problems of piloting a
experimented with spin-proof aeroplanes. projecting from the dashboard. This was small aircraft.
On joining the Engineering & Research capable of sliding horizontally fore and aft That the idea worked is undeniable, but
In 1952, ‘The Aeroplane’ magazine test flew and reviewed one of the first UK-registered Erco
Ercoupe 415s, finding that it required a flying technique quite different from ‘normal’ light air-
craft with separate rudder control.
those with existing flying experience did

not necessarily get on with this
‘simplified’ control arrangement, which
made control difficult in poor weather
conditions. So later Ercoupes had
conventional three-axis control systems.
Production ran from 1940 until the
following year, when it ceased after
completion of just 112 aircraft. Closure
was the result of lack of materials for
which the war-effort had first call and in
any case, millions of Amercans would
shortly be very much more ‘othewise
engaged’ overseas.
Back on track
However, when peace returned after
1945, the entire US aircraft industry was
faced with rapid contraction as all air
Cockpit layout exudes

‘automobile style’.

LEFT & RIGHT:

An example of the
later Alon Ercoupe with
Canadian registration.
Cockpit canopy centre
section appears to
slightly ‘blown’ with a
hint of double
curvature.
arms, Air Force, Navy and Marines date and with a concept likely to appeal. Specifications:
returned to a peacetime footing. Major So production recommenced in 1946 and
aircraft manufacturers were faced with Erco made 5,081 Ercoupes of various Length: 20 ft. 9 in.
the prospect of building anything that versions before production again came Span: 30 ft. 0 in.
would keep them in business. The result to a halt in 1951, due to the Korean war Height: 5 ft. 11 in.
was a flood of small sport and personal and other pressures that made Wing area: 142 sq. ft. (gross).
aircraft designs to satisfy a perceived production unecconomic. Loaded weight: 1,260 lbs.
demand that would emanate from The Ercoupe concept nevertheless had Tare weight: 750 lbs.
military servicemen with wartime flying staying power and after a lapse, rights to Max. speed: 127 at sea level.
experience who would want to carry on the design passed through a number of Cruising speed: 110 m.p.h. at
flying for their personal enjoyment. small companies, starting with Sanders 1,000 feet.
That demand never really emerged at Aviation which assembled aircraft from Stalling speed: 48 m.p.h.
the level anticipated, but Erco had a Erco parts. Vest Aircraft had the rights in Range: 500 miles.
head-start on most in this field with a 1954, then Forney Aircraft in 1955, where Ceiling: 14,000 ft.
ready-to-go design that was well up to a further 115 were made.

Back in the late 1940s. early1950s, polished

bare-metal finish was popular for for American light
aircraft, but proably best avoided when modelling
the type!
This Ercoupe 415

displays an ‘Ercoupe’
logo different from
others depected here.
Air Products Inc were the next, with

their Aircoupe F-1A, where another short
run finished in 1962. Alon Inc. took over in
late 1963, producing a number of versions
including the A-2, A-2A, plus some further
developments, before Alon merged with
Mooney Aircraft Corp in 1967.
Production then continued for a while,
but Mooney’s developments ran to a
reconfiguration that included a single fin
and from that point the distinctive
Ercoupe features just faded away. I
LEFT & RIGHT: An example of the original

Erco Ercoupe 415, also with Canadian
registation.
A nice subject for scale

here is a sort of timeless, comfortable, not-too-modern feel about the shape of this
T cute little aircraft, many of which still survive and give immense pleasure to their
happy owners. If you are not up to designing your own then the Nick Ziroli Service
has plans and parts for an 80” span version of the ‘415, designed for 150 size engines.
In UK, the plans are available from Belair Kits (www.Belairkits.com) price £55.00. They also
offer a set of cut wood parts
for £175.00 and a moulded
glass fibre cowl at £55.00.
If you want a full kit, then
Balsa USA have a 1/3rd scale
Ercoupe 415-D.It has a
wingspan of 120” (3048mm)
and is intended for 45-65cc ZIROLI 80” WINGSPAN
(2.7-4.0 cu.in) petrol engines) ERCOUPE: Plans & Parts from Belair.
and is quite pricey ay near of
$900.00. In UK, Pegasus Models advertise the Balsa USA range and
although it’s not listed on their web site, it’s worth asking the question
BALSA USA ERCOUPE: 1/3rd scale, 120” wingspan about availability.

ERCOUPE SCALE DRAWING TONY OK 17/10/13 10:04 Page 2
ERCOUPE SCALE DRAWING TONY OK 17/10/13 10:04 Page 3
SCALE 1:40
ERCOUPE IN DETAIL TONY OK copy 23/10/13 11:55 Page 2
IN DETAIL
Erco Ercoupe 415

Alon Ercoupe
Close-up surface detail is what makes a model so special
Erco Ercoupe 415
1 2 3
4 5 6
7 8
9 10 11

12 13
ERCOUPE 415
1: The upper engine cowl,
showing the hinge line of
the inspection covers.
2: Fuel filler cap in front of
cockpit windscreen.
3: The nose shape of the
Ercoupe has a distinctive
‘V’ profile.
4 & 5: Cooling air intakes
either side of the propeller
spinner.
6: Side view of the engine
cowl, showing the
inspection hatch lines.
7: Detail of the original
Ercoupe logo.
15 14 8: The complete tailcone.
The tailplane of the Alon
version has a different
elevator shape and the
fuselage tailcone also
differs.
9 & 10: Two views of the
main undercarriage.
11: View of the tailplane
showing the junction
between tailplane and
fuselage.
12: Fuselage side detail at
the cockpit position.
13: The wing tip showing
the up-swept lower surface
and the wing tip light
16 17 mounting.
14: Further close-up of the
wing tip light.
15: The wing root junction
with the fuselage. Note the
leading edge spoiler.
16: Further detail of the
fuselage tailcone showing
the shape and the tail
light.
17: Wing upper surface
detail, showing panel
detail and the cockpit
access tread patch.
Alon Ercoupe
18 19 22
20 21
23
ALON ERCOUPE
18: Cockpit framework differs from Ercoupe 415. Frames are more slender for better vision.
19: Cockpit viewed from rear. 20: Cockpit windshield. 21: Detail of the cockpit slider rails.
22: Alon version has wing tip light faired into wing tip edge. Note shape of rivets.
23: View from under the engine cowl looking rearward at the fuselage underside.

24 25
ALON ERCOUPE
24: The contour of the rear edge of the engine cowl.
25: Fuselage underside at the wing root trailing edge.
26: Cockpit rim and colour trim detail.
27: Blister fairings on the upper surface of the engine cowl.
28: Contours of the engine cowl and air intakes on the Alon version are similar to the Ercoupe 415.
29: Air-exit grille on the engine cowl underside, viewed looking forward.
26 27 28
29 30
31 & 32: Main undercarriage. The trouser

fairing is more deeply scalloped than on the
‘415 version.
33: Cockpit access tread-panel at wing root.
31 32 33

34 35 36
37
38 39 40
41 42 34: The undercarriage

noseleg.
35: Detail of the drag link on

the noseleg.
36: Detail of the wing fairing

shape at the wing trailing
edge.
37: The Alon Ercoupe has this

double landing light in the
left wing leading edge
43 approx 2/3rds out from the
wing root.
38: Shape of the tailplane of

the Alon Ercoupe differs from
earlier version with a ‘bite’
44 out of the centre. Note also
the stepped shape of the
fuselage tailcone.
45
39: Elevator trim tab, showing
the hinge line.
40: Pitot head under the

left wing.
41: Elevator hinge and

bracket that secures the fin.
42: Elevator trim control on

lower surface of elevator.
46 43: The Alon Ercoupe logo as

applied to the inner surfaces
of both fins.
44: Detail of the fuselage-to-

tailplane fairing.
45: Graphic fin/rudder motif.
46: Panel detail at tailplane

root.

SURVIVING SCALE PART 7 Tony OK 16/10/13 16:44 Page 2
FREE FLIGHT SCALE
Part 7 - Andrew Hewitt reviews engine installation options and engine bay accessibility
he most frustrating element in starts, no problem. But on the day of the down both fuel pipes (fill and vent) to
T flying a scale free flight model

can be the problems associated
with operating the power
source. This is often because we
try desperately hard to hide the engine,
and its controls from view for the sake of
scale realism.
competition, however on a cold grey
aerodrome, engine settings have
completely changed, cowlings have to
come off and its back to ...panic, flick,
flick, PANIC!
So it is far better to have your power
controls readily accessible, because
prime the engine - tastes awful, but
better than some beers!
Plumbing the depths...

The tank should be positioned as close to
the engine as possible with the minimum
of fuel tubing from the feed to the needle.
However, things soon change following conditions always change. My usual The level of the tank relative to the needle
a trimming session, or especially during a headache is that the engines are is the most critical for trouble-free
competition - cowlings get modified and required to run flat out for take off and operation. This should be such that the full
butchered, access to needle valves and are thus running lean, so that a prime is tank level is at, or below, the level of the
compression screws takes on a new required to start. Usually access to the needle valve in the flying position. Having
dimension (never smaller). Most of these exhaust ports is very difficult (due to the long lengths of fuel tubing will allow the
modifications should have been avoided desire to completely hide the engine fuel to bubble, froth, gum up and surge
during construction but, typically, they from view) and choking the intake near during acceleration. Remember, it is also
normally take a back seat behind the impossible, if a front induction motor is important to be able to view the contents
beautification treatment. used. I have to use a long spout on the of the tank prior to each flight, or use a
end of my fuel filler bottle, often poked syringe to measure your fuel ... or
Then panic...! through the radiator grill and give a thereafter, use a cycle and compass to
I have often fallen victim to my own poor good spray of fuel, making sure the find your model downwind!
engine installations. Usually my designs piston is at TDC to prevent the dreaded
operate wonderfully in my back garden flooding and more ...PANIC. Keeping your cool...
the day before a competition - first flick I have also used the method of blowing Engine overheating can be a serious
Mind those fingers! Bill Dennis maneouvres his Avro 504K to get at the inverted compression screw (Mills 75).

problem, especially if your pride and joy

FIG 1
has just taken off and is still perilously close Filler/vent
to the hard stuff. The main causes are an
over-compressed engine, hot weather
Fuel feed
conditions, or ingestion of exhaust gasses. to engine
The latter is the most common cause - Top
since we only run an engine for one
minute, or so, cylinder cooling is not
required, but the exhaust gasses can
quickly cook an engine if not
removed quickly.
You must provide adequate exit area for
these reasons - luckily, most full-size aircraft
Trim base to
have the same problems, so often a scale give 1 minute
cowling will do the work for us. As a of fuel
general rule of thumb, make sure that the
cowling exit area exceeds the intake area
(a factor of 1.5 in area is regarded as the
general rule), and you should have
no problems.
Tank from empty film can (clear plastic)
Engines
All the flicking and starting troubles are
largely the result of using front induction Comp Special, are much easier to install choke the engine, a larger hole has to be
engines, where the intake is difficult to and operate. These can be choked from made between the undercarriage
access. This is the problem of building behind - and also have their needle valve underneath, to allow ET to do his
heavy models, where brute power is in a more sensible location. magic again!
required to fly them. An inverted front The only situation in which rear induction The choice of engine to use is a personal
induction engine stuck behind scale motors become difficult to operate is preference, based on your experience
cowlings, radiators, etc., is a beast to get when installed in models of rotary engined with particular engine types, but also the
to choke, unless you are one of the lucky aircraft, like the Sopwith Pup or Camel, configuration of your chosen aircraft. Both
people with an index finger like ET! Rear which have short noses. Here, the intake sizes of Mills engines are the classic motors
induction engines, such as the Mills 75 and ends up between the undercarriage legs to use, easy to operate and install, with a
1.3, together with the ED Racer and and in the middle of the cockpit! To built-in tank. Original engines are
Practising what you preach! Metal mounting plate for thrustline The front induction PAW 100 in John Rimmer’s Sopwith Camel - not
adjustment, with cut-out for access to needle valve and choking. Note easy to get at, when running - but easier than if a rear induction
the rubber band- tensioned cowl hinge - dead easy for an inline motor was fitted!
engine on Andy Hewitt’s Airco DH4.

Another solution - an inverted mounting (Russian rear induction The Fokker D.VII offers a more straightforward approach. The upright
engine?), despite the large top ‘scoop’ cowl on Mike Kelsey’s BE2. DC Sabre has a modified Allen key comp screw - note short length of
Note the press stud lower cowl mounting point. fuel tube!
expensive and may have had a hard life, and very cheap on the second needle valve should be easily accessible,
but we can now buy new reproductions hand market. even extended external to the cowling, to
from Irvine Engines in the UK, which are allow final setting ready for the off. This
excellent, or buy a new Indian Mills Installation can be achieved by soldering some
reproduction, cheap but effective (also Generally, the simplest engine installations 16swg wire to the needle (with great care
sold by Irvine Engines). The range of small are those with the engine mounted not to put too much heat on to the
diesels produced by PAW are excellent vertically upright (no more flooding!), with needle valve), so that it just pokes out of
and economic engines, the pick of the generous scale cowling over the top. The the cowling. This makes life so much easier
bunch being their 0.8cc vintage classic, de Havilland, and German equivalent, and is hardly noticeable.
which is perfect for scale. The DC Merlin two-seaters of WWI fall into this The compression screw (in the case of
.75cc is also a good beginners engine, specification. Whatever the design, the diesel engines) does not have to be so
exposed, unless your motor is on its last
legs; a simple generous hole cut over its
location, to allow pliers or a tube spanner
in to twiddle, will do the trick. However, if
you require more down thrust and right
thrust, this initially neat hole now wanders
all over the new cowling. You had better
trim your model first (chicken and
egg syndrome).
Tanks...
One of the most critical items on your IC
powered scale model is the location and
configuration of the fuel tank. The tank
must be accessible for filling and should
hold fuel for no more than one minute at
full power. It should be small and
squat-shaped, such that there is not a
large head change as the fuel is drawn
off. (See Figs.1 & 2). The eye-dropper type
of tank gives a larger head change,
which normally makes itself known by
constantly changing engine settings.
I have found it preferable to let the
It’s a short nose, so it’s all crammed in the cowl! Charlie Newman’s little Sopwith Camel cowl engine suck its fuel, rather than letting
sports a 0.5cc DC Dart, fuel tank - and lead weight - and it fits! gravity help it. My fuel tanks are made

from cut-down clear 35mm film canisters

(visible fuel level). The lid has three alu-
minium pipes superglued into it - one filler,
and one vent and one feed. The body of
the canister is cut down to give the
one-minute of fuel, then glued to the lid.
The tank should be positioned as close
to the engine as possible, with the
minimum of fuel tubing from the feed to
the needle. The level of the tank, relative
to the needle, is the most critical for
trouble-free operation. This should be such
that the ‘full’ tank level is below the level
of the needle valve in the flying
position, with a minimum length of fuel
tube between.
Gas and gaiters?

The engine installation for CO2 powered
scale models needs to follow similar
principles to IC motors, in that the vital
organs need to be readily accessible by
use of removable cowlings and access
holes. In some CO2 motors, where the
Another BE2, and a different approach. This version is powered by an inverted Mills 1.3,
throttle is on the front crankcase - the mounted on a glass-reinforced plate, which carries the tank filler tube and needle valve
Modella and Gasparin motors need access hole. Note that there is plenty of room behind to access the venturi and tank.
access to the cylinder head for
throttle adjustments. normally occur at the soldered joints at problems (electrically speaking). Charging
A good flow of air around the cylinder the filler, tank and cylinder head, where points and all connections/leads need to
head/barrel is also required, to prevent most fiddling occurs. Neat tube bending is be neatly secured to prevent the fatigue
icing problems. Any icing problems should a must - use dowel or a pencil to form the of solder joints. The pulling and pushing of
virtually disappear if only gas charges are tube around into a coil of one or two turns leads and sockets for charging will break
given, i.e. always fill the tank from an at the joints previously mentioned. This solder joints and guaranteed, it will always
upright charge, thus preventing liquid gas forms a neat spring around these vital break just before a competition flight!
entering the tank. With no liquid in the organs preventing fatigue and prolonging Similarly the battery pack needs to be
system, the “O” rings do no suffer the life. Wherever possible, mount the filler secure, to prevent it failing.
attack of ice crystals, and therefore last valve securely - don’t leave it flapping Both CO2 and Electric motors require
longer - the only drawback is that a larger about, it’s guaranteed to lead to kinking mounting such that thrust line adjustments
fuel tank may be required to obtain the and damaged pipes. The fuel tank should can be easily made without resulting to
duration needed - or you should build also be secured in position, for major surgery of the nasal passages,
lighter models! identical reasons. hopefully the scale panel lines will allow
Other troubles associated with CO2 easy access to all areas. Think ahead and
models are often caused by kinked, or Getting a buzz anticipate such problems - and take the
leaky, pipes and worn “O” rings. These Electric models have similar plumbing pain out of your modelling. I
FIG 2
Ensure fuel level is below the needle centre line.

PRETENSIONING Tony OK 17/10/13 10:23 Page 2
RUBBER POWER TECHNIQUE
SO WHAT IS
PRE-TENSIONING?
John O’Donnell explains
In Part 6 of Andrew Hewitt’s ‘SURVIVING FREE FLIGHT SCALE feature last month,
he dealt with the the techniques associated with rubber powered scale models
and briefly mentionsed the practice of ‘Pre-Tensioning’ the rubber motor.
This is a technique long used by aeromodellers whose experience goes back a
long way, but may not be known to those withoutprevious knowledge of rubber
as a means of powering scale models.
Unfortunately, there was no space available to tack John O’Donnell’s explanation,
appropriately, onto the end of Andrew’s piece last month, but here it is now.
his is a way of accommodating a and that the ‘doubled over’ part of the
T long rubber motor in a relatively

short fuselage to circumvent the
problem of a long unwound rubber
motor distributing itself unevenly
inside the model. It is a technique regularly
applied to ‘open’ competition free fight
models where you can use as much rubber
motor may not be its mid-point. This can
lead to a motor that sometimes still
‘bunches’ inside the fuselage. The system
also only works with motors of four strands or
multiples thereof. (Fig.4)
A better and more versatile system is to
make up two separate motors of the normal
motor as you like (as distinct from the specified length, but of half (or plus or minus
‘restricted’ Wakefield and Coup d’Hiver one) the number of strands. For a 14-strand
classes that have so little rubber that motors motor make up an 8 and a 6 strand motor.
are invariably taut between anchorages). These are attached to the same rear fitting,
But it is entirely appropriate for free flight
scale rubber powered models. (Fig.1)
wound in turn attached to the same
propeller, and allowed to unwind together.
FIG.2
Many rubber designs with folding propellers It is important that the two separate parts of
(using the conventional ‘spring and wood the rubber are, at this pretensioning stage,
screw’ stop system) side-step the problem by wound in the SAME direction, not in
retaining the final few turns (which provide opposite directions as the diagram here
little or no power) on the motor. This is easily implies. (Fig.5)
accomplished by suitable adjustment of the This ensures the two ‘halves’ have the
stop. A complete row of knots can be same length and same turns. Even an odd
expected to be even, but a partial’ row can number of strands can be managed by
be left at either nose or tail with resultant including a separate strand (with a loop on
repercussions on the glide. (Fig.2) each end) in one ‘side.’ (Fig.6)
Models with free-wheeling (i.e. all small kit In all cases the number of turns required
designs), feathering, free-wheel-folding, and has to be determined by experiment as it
some with conventional folding propellers depends on the number of strands as well as
employ pre-tensioned motors. The rubber is motor and fuselage length. It should also
plaited, or twisted on itself, so that when depend on the propeller type. A
unwound it forms a ‘rope’ in which individual freewheeling propeller should have the
strands (being spirally disposed) are longer motor just tight enough for the propeller
than the overall length of the motor. The nose block to remain in place on the glide,
effective length of the motor, and hence its but slack enough for the propeller to ‘knock
capacity for withstanding turns is still out’ rather than break on landing.
effectively the length of the strands. To be A (free wheel) folder model should have a
pedantic the maximum turns are tighter motor, as the nose block must stay in FIG.3
reduced slightly due to the residual turns place during the jolt of the propeller being
used to pre-tension. stopped at the end of the motor run.
The easiest method of so treating a motor Allow the Pretension turns to unwind under
is to make up a motor of twice the intended tension to produce evenly distributed
length and half the required number of tensioning turns. This gives a motor longer
strands (it might not be superfluous to say than will result under normal conditions, so
that a loop is two strands). (Fig.3) after tensioning and before flight apply a
small fraction of ‘contest’ turns and allow the
Pretensioning motor to unwind in the model. If the tension
A number of turns are applied to one end of is not as required then repeat with more or
this motor whilst the other is held stationary. less turns as appropriate. Then record the
The two ends are brought together, number for future applications.
attached to a propeller, and allowed to Finally it is generally considered
unwind whilst the middle is held. The motor inadvisable to leave a motor tensioned
forms itself into a plaited skein. FOR periods of several days or more. The
The main snags with this system are that rubber takes on a permanently wavy form
the preliminary turns may not be uniform - a hardly desirable feature. I

PRETENSIONING Tony OK 17/10/13 10:23 Page 3
FIG.4
FIG.5
FIG.1
FIG.6
FF SCALE NATS Tony OK 17/10/13 10:41 Page 2
PHOTO REPORT
Scale Action at The BMFA

Free Flight Nats 2013
At last, the weather gods smiled on a bumper Free Flight Scale Contest
eld under the auspices the Steve Powell’s silver biplane in the
H BMFA Free Flight Nationals,

this is really two competitions:
the Aeromodeller / Model
Aircraft Magazine Designs
competition, and the normal Free Flight
Open Scale contest. Bill Dennis wisely (and
bravely) decided to run both
Aeromodeller / Model Aircraft Designs
Class had the authentically stubby-nosed
cowl enveloping its dummy radial in the
scale fashion. This chunky nose-treatment
also hid its real diesel. An appealing
model of a rarely-modelled obscure British
scale subject.
competitions at the same time, which
ensured a great spectacle for the crowd, Miles Student
with continuous scale action. As if this Derek Knight’s creativity puts him in a class
bliss was not enough, the weather of his own. His new electric ducted fan
was excellent. (EDF) Miles Student was amazing. Originally
designed for the famous but ancient Jetex
Austin Whippet solid fuel rocket pack, it now has an EDF
Contrary to popular myth, those of us unit of Derek’s own design.
’Oop North do not see whippets every He had to sort out some annoying
day. So to witness an Austin Whippet flying adverse trim issues, but after all, this is a
scale model was indeed a rare treat. challenging free flight subject. Later,
The Novocastrian Encampment at the comps. Terry’s

Aeronca Sedan to the fore.
Steve Powell and his rarely-modelled Austin

Whippet and flying high over Barkston Heath.
Phil Smith’s ambitious

twin: a DH 10.
Impressive! Derek Knight’s innovative and Delightful rubber-powered Comper Swift from Mike Kelsey’s diesel powered Se5A turning
very rarely-modelled Miles Student EDF. Ken Bates, flying just beautifully! nicely under power.
Derek came top in Open Scale with his by Billy Hanshaw, it remains a smasher. I Aeronca Sedan
equally demanding French Sud-Est noticed Billy had achieved a very Terry Aydon placed 9th with his
SE 5000 Baroudeur. straight climb-out with his immaculate immaculate and impressively large (66”
model, but the torque-turn soon span) Aeronca Sedan. This was built from
Avro Avis tightened. Note that Billy also designed the plan in the famous and much
We have seen this orange and silver F/F and built the model’s diesel power plant. admired Mercury kit and appropriately, it
scale model before. Designed and built was powered by a classic Oliver Tiger
Bryan Lea’s
DHC-2 Beaver
climbing out
nicely.
Bryan Lea timing the engine run on his DHC-2

Beaver, whilst checking the wind.

Ray Hall fettles his Blackburn B2. Hard to beat. Ray Hall launches his Blackburn B2.
diesel. With the Ollie Tiger on full song she Nicholls. His Piper L-4 electric-powered /
set off on her aerial navigations with huge enlisted-civilian / light-aircraft-cum-
authority - satisfyingly big free flight warbird was very attractive. Bernie stuck
scale model. with the trimming all evening, but he did
To modellers of my generation, who not make the scorecard. A pity, but
could never afford this classic kit, it was free-flight scale isn’t for wimps. Fret not!
astounding to actually see a famed Bernie will have trimmed her out by the
Mercury Aeronca in the air. It made a time you read this.
superb flight and made my weekend.
Avro Avian
Chrislea SuperAce Before I conclude these brief notes I must
Ron Smith’s red and silver Chrislea Super mention a fine scale model that wasn’t
Ace G-AKVR immediately appealed to yet ready to be entered for the comp.
me since, a few seasons ago, noted R/C However, I managed to get a few snaps
Gareth Tilston informs the Judges of his inten- scale man John Rickett kindly took me for of her before it went dark. This was the
tion to fly. a spin in his full size example, G-AKUW. It stunning Avro Avian brought along by
was an astounding experience. The previously aforementioned Bowden Contest
Chrislea is such a distinctive and elegant Winner, Terry Aydon. This Avian is exquisite,
British design. Sadly, neat Ron’s Chrislea and we will return to it in a later issue.
only recorded a score on one flight.
Blackburn B2
Piper L-4Grasshopper One of my all-time scale heroes, Ray Hall
Another modeller having trimming issues flew his new Blackburn B.2. As you might
was my guitar-wielding mate Bernie expect, this is an accurate and impressively
Fokker aloft! Gareth Tilston’s Eindekker E.III.
It’s the way you hold yer mouth. Gareth Tilston gives
his Fokker E.III a textbook launch.

Billy Hanshaw’s Avro Avis, powered by his neat

own-design, hand-made diesel engine.
finished flying scale model. She flew very

well indeed, and deservedly placed First
in the Aeromodeller / Model Aircraft class.
Entries
There were 14 models in Free Flight Open
Scale, and 6 in the Aeromodeller /
Model Aircraft Designs Competition.
The verdict
A well organised contest, attracting a
good entry. At long last we had bright Billy Hanshaw’s own-design .75cc diesel in Billy Hanshaw gets Avis away.
his Avis.
sunny weather for a British Free Flight
Scale Comp! No precipitation in sight,
no gloomy evening snaps, but some
pukka flying shots. For once, I was a
happy snapper.
Acknowledgements
Thanks to Bill Dennis for his crisp
organisation of two simultaneous comps.
Bill also supplied me with the Official
Results. As if all that were not enough,
busy Bill also posted Provisional Rules for
next year’s FF Scale competitions. In Terry Aydon about to launch his superb Big banger! Terry Aydon’s hugely impressive 66”
both classes Bill proposes the removal of classic Aeronca Sedan from the Mercury Kit. span Olly Tiger powered Mercury Aeronca Sedan.
the Scale Documentation requirement,
to encourage participation in the
competitions. Speaking strictly as a
punter, it looks good to me. I
Results
Open Scale
1. Derek Knight Sud-Eest Baroudeur
2. Mike Smith Airco DH 10
3. Andy Sephton Grumman Wildcat
4. Gareth Tilston Fokker E.III
5. Billy Hanshaw Avro Avis Bernie Nicholls and his new electric pow- Bernie Nicholl’s fine L-4 Grasshopper on one
6. Philip Smith Cessna L-19 Bird Dog ered Piper L-4 Grasshopper. of its many trimming flights.
7. Martin Pike Comper Swift
8. Bryan Lea DHC-2 Beaver
9. Terry Aydon Aeronca Sedan
10. Steve Powell AustinWhippet
11. Ken Bates Comper Swift
12. Ray Hall Blackburn B2
13. Mike Kelsey SE5A
14. Ron Smith Chrislea Super Ace
Aeromodeller/Model Aircraft designs class

1. Ray Hall Blackburn B2
2. Derek Knight Miles Student
3. Gareth Tilston Fokker EIII Geordie scale maestro (and past Bowden Terry Aydon’s 44” span Avro Avian.
4. Mike Kelsey SE5A Winner) Terry Aydon with his immaculate
5. Steve Powell Austin Whippet Avro Avian.
6. Andy Sephton ABC Robin
QUIET ZONE DEC 13 copy 17/10/13 11:11 Page 2
H
ere we go again, another
instalment of The Quiet Zone.
Having rather a lot to fit in this
time, I’ll limit my input to a
brief introduction.
Since you’re going to need this sort of
information before we press on with more
details of that Sopwith Camel we were
examining (before I interrupted it with a
plan article). So, without further delay;
over to Jonathan Rider for all the details.
Top gun
Early aircraft that were developed prior to
and during early World War I were designed
for reconnaissance and to be used as flying
observation platforms. These aircraft would
fly well above the range of the enemy small
arms fire and make observations on troop
movements, locations and gather other
tactical data, returning it to the military
leaders. Early on, aircraft from the opposing
forces would encounter each other, so the
pilots armed themselves with pistols, car-
bines, grenades, and an assortment of
improvised weapons, and tried to shoot at
each other. Many of these methods
proved ineffective as the pilot had to fly his
aircraft while attempting to aim a
R/C SCALE ELECTRICS by Peter Rake handheld weapon and make a difficult
deflection shot.
As control of the airspace over the
opposing armies became increasingly
important, all of the major powers
developed dedicated fighters to support
their military operations. Early fighters were
The finished Vickers guns

installed in the Camel. Note
the cocking levers in the
cockpit.

Typical of the assortment of bits required if you want to scratch build your own The basic Vickers barrel sleeve scored and ready to roll.
model guns. Never throw anything away.
Cooling louvers chiselled in and a few bits of tube More details added from wood, plastic card and metal tubing complete the basic gun.
help add ‘life’.
very small and lightly armed by later scout, the Airco DH.2, with the propeller Patrol’ looking down two machine gun
standards, and most were biplanes built mounted behind the pilot and a Lewis barrels at the dreaded enemy.
with a wooden frame, covered with fabric, machine gun up front with excellent visibility As we know, most early aircraft were
and limited in speed to about 100 mph. But and field of fire. It was a great fighter in its made of light wood or metal tubing and
between the two world wars, wood was time, the dominant type over the front for a cloth, they strapped on a very heavy engine,
largely replaced by steel tubing and fighters short time, early in the war. One of the main added a few machine guns and a few
were progressively equipped with larger drawbacks was that the high drag of a hundred rounds of ammunition, put a pilot
weapons and more powerful engines. After pusher type’s tail structure made it slower on board with a few hours of fuel, and off he
the jet age arrived, the ‘gunfighter’ was than a similar ‘tractor’ aircraft. German went. For conversation sake, 80% of this
essentially phased out to basically a pilot designs quickly surpassed the speed and weight was in front part of the aircraft (let’s
firing guided missiles, where the distance manoeuvrability of the little DH2. for now rule out the DH series of pusher
between aircraft is so great, the pilots would On front-mounted engine aircraft, lower aircraft). But the Sopwith, Albatros, Fokker,
not even see each other while they were wing mounted guns placed outside of the Nieuport, Pfalz and SPAD aircraft all had most
locked in battle. propeller arc, were tried but the unreliable of the weight up in the front of the aircraft.
The ‘charm’ of building WW1 models is weapons available required frequent The wings had to be aligned to support this
the wealth detail you can add to the clearing of jammed rounds and misfires and ‘nose weight’, so they were also well forward
aircraft - from wood and fabric to spoked remained impractical until after the war. on the aircraft. But where does this place
wheels and rigging wires. The aircraft fly at Other solutions were to mount the machine your centre of gravity? Pretty far forward!
a leisurely pace and represent cutting gun to fire forwards but outside the propeller When making our model, we have to
edge engineering from the time where arc like the Lewis on top of the SE5a wing. increase the structure of the tail to support
designs were drawn on the shop floor and This worked well, but required a lot of the model flying, landing and add some
trial and error was a ‘one time’ event. attention to the gun if it jammed or needed strength for the loads these models endure,
One key feature I like to detail is the guns to be reloaded. add servos and radio gear (sometimes
and armament of these early fighters. The Most fighters of the later WW1 period behind the CG) and there will be a good
look of twin machine guns between wings ended up having one or two machine chance that to make up for the tail weight,
and wire just reflects pure aviation guns right in front of the cockpit in easy you will have to add some sort of ‘dead’
bravery, chivalry and daring. reach of the pilot with an ‘interrupter’ weight in the nose of the aircraft to make it
There were so many different designs of gear that would prevent the guns from balance correctly. There is one thing I dislike
first-generation fighters back then, one firing when the propeller was in the way. more than leaving my transmitter at home
example of an early fighter was a ‘pusher’ I can just picture Errol Flynn on a ‘Dawn when I go flying - having to add ‘dead’

three-view of the gun - that is my plan that I

work to throughout the build. I first make
the receiver and the grip all out of balsa
pieces, starting with just a square block, and
an adding vertical piece for the grip. The
round action on the bottom is just one more
piece of balsa. Use the drawing often and
make sure you stay within the ‘scale’ size.
Then you can add the trigger guard from a
cut piece of T-pin or thin wire.
I then cut the barrel and the gas
return-tube barrel out of a bamboo stick
(don’t tell my wife I raided her cooking tool
stash) and I cut it to length - it’s easy - just
use the ‘full size’ drawing as a template -
then I cut a brass tube and CA it all
together. I added a balsa ring for the barrel
to attach to the receiver.
Next, I cut a piece of aluminium tape plus
The guns, still in need of painting and weathering, being test fitted into the nose of Jon’s Camel. some small strips and wrapped these
around the gun for detail - use the plan as a
weight to a model aircraft. We should item so thatI have something to design to - guide. I then measured the diameter of the
always plan tp place anything of weight as It’s easier for me to make something that ammunition drum and cut that out from
far forward as possible. replicates a real object, I downloaded the balsa, attached and added small strips of
O.K. Enough on the CG lesson, but the AirAge document sheet of the dimensions the aluminium tape to represent the
point of the comments is that you can and details of the Lewis gun without the notches in the drum, one small circle on top
add extra weight to your dummy cooling jacket (Many aviation modifications with a strip of tape for the leather handle,
machine guns, motor, cowl, and other to machine guns had to do with removing and then the drum is complete.
scale items and it will actually help you water cooling jackets and protective While you are at it, make a few ammo
balance your model better. Keep this in covers, both not needed up at altitude). drums. In many cases, aircraft had extra
mind as we begin our construction. I used the specification sheet and the scale drums attached to the outside of the
calculator, and reduced all of the drawings cockpit, along the fuselage, or stacked
Let’s make our guns down to 1/16th - here is a great link to a inside the cockpit for easy change.
Let’s start with a small 1/16th scale Lewis site that will help you create the proper Make the rear handle from a T-pin and a
gun. The first thing I do when I want to make dimensions: http://jbwid.com/scalcalc.htm small piece of bamboo - then attach with
a smaller scale of something full size is to get Once the drawings and details are scaled CA. Add any other details you need with
as many reference pictures I can of the down, I print out a 1/16th size picture of the the aluminium tape and CA - then harden
Nothing too complicated about getting this far making a model Lewis gun.

the whole thing with a very light coat of CA.

Paint with flat black and gun metal grey -
the fun part of the real aluminium tape is
you can scrape off the paint to make the
gun look used and worn - the shine of the
metal tape will show right through the paint
The Vickers machine gun was also a
conversion from a very popular infantry
weapon for aircraft use. Most of the WW1
British and U.S. aircraft carried one or more
of these machine guns. The Vickers had a
large cooling jacket around the barrel that
circulated water, and allowed it to sustain a
rapid rate of fire without the barrel getting
too hot. A can of water was used as a
‘radiator’ and worked though gravity
circulation. On the aircraft, the weight of a
water cooled machine gun was too great,
so many times you would see holes cut into
the front of the cooling jackets, and air exit
slots or louvers cut in the rear. This would
allow the slipstream to pass around the
barrel and cool the gun.
Unlike the Lewis, the Vickers was belt-fed A few bits of wire and some aluminium tape lend realism. Jon’s fingers show just how small
this gun actually is.
with a cloth belt feeding from the right (as
you look from the rear). Spent cardrige
cases were either dispensed overboard or,
on some aircraft, collected in cartridge
catchers, not only to keep spent shells from
flying all around the cockpit, but to enable
the cartridge cases to be recycled and
re-loaded for re-use.
The Vickers should go together just like the
Lewis, making the breech and the firing
mechanism first, then the barrel shroud.
Now, there are many ways to make a scale
machine gun shroud, but before we dive in
too deep, remember our centre of gravity?
Don’t feel as if you have to make the
shroud out of paper or light material, brass
tubing makes a wonderful scale
machinegun barrel, as well as plastic tubing
or even aluminium soda can metal. These
added details make the gun more scale,
and add some needed weight up front of
the aircraft.
As you can see on my Sopwith Camel, the
shrouds were made from sheet plastic,
grooved with a small screwdriver, and the A bit of paint and some weathering brings it all to life.
cooling vents were punched through the
plastic with a small chisel and hammer.
Remember, these machine guns were
adapted or updated and repaired (mostly
in the field) for the aircraft, so use your
talents here, and there are many ways to
make the guns scale and correct.
One of the fun parts of making a belt-fed
machine gun is the level of detail you may
wish to apply. The making of a belt with
bullets in it is not that difficult, and adds a ton
of scale realism to your machine guns. I used
old bed or pillow case sheets, the sheet is
thin enough to make a scale ‘belt’ and you
can colour it with almost any brown or dark
stain to give it the ‘weathered’ or
much-used look. Here is a neat scale tip.
How many of us have that medium sized
bottle of model paint thinner sitting in the
corner with the assortment of paint jars we
have collected over the years? If your
thinner bottle is anything like mine, it has a
mass of grey sludge of paint at the bottom.
To make wonderfully weathered material for
your machine gun belts, strapping, seat belts
or any other weathered of worn wood or
fabric, shake that thinner bottle up, and dip
the piece of cloth right into the thinner. It will
come out weathered perfectly, grey and
brown with the cloth texture showing
through. Let it dry, and you now have a With an installation like that, this just has to be a R.N.A.S. Sopwith Pup. It is typical of the
piece of cloth that looks like it has been run arrangement used on night-fighters and anti Zeppelin duties.

A photo-etched cooling sleeve and a breach made from aluminium tape clad wood form the basis of Jon’s Spandau gun.
through a machinegun a few times! To finish off the belt, take another strip of they took off the cooling jacket of the
The bullets can be made with small cut cloth, the same width as your first one and Infantry version and added a series of
lengths of brass wire, plastic pieces or small place it on top of the brass shells, and CA lightening holes. This is what gives the
gauge single-strand electrical wire. I like to the strips together. If you want to go a little Spandau it’s very distinctive look. To
use brass, so that I don’t have to paint the further, you can carefully push the BACK replicate that, you can purchase
entire bullet - I can just add a lead-collared side of a Xacto blade between each brass aftermarket (or make your own) brass
tip when done. When you have a few shell as you glue it to give the belt a sewn etched pieces (like shown here on the
dozen bullets cut from your brass wire, take ‘bumpy’ look. 1/16th scale D.VIII) or you can make your
a thin strip of the weathered fabric material Finish your machine gun with the added shroud from paper or metal. Another neat
and place it on a piece of waxed (or details of a gun sight and the grips. The sight trick is to print the pattern with your
parchment) paper on your building board can be made with wire wrapped around a computer onto paper, and use that, it still looks
and pin each end. Then, line up your bullets piece of brass tubing to keep it perfectly very convincing from just a few feet away!
touching each other side by side. Again, round, and thread used for the cross hairs. The machine guns described here are just
have each piece right up against each Don’t tie the thread, but lay it on the wire the beginning on how you can add
other in parallel. Align the tips of the bullets loop you just made, add a little CA on both armament to your aircraft. Some aircraft had
so they are all in order. Use a straight edge ends and trim it with a sharp knife. The CA, twin Lewis guns, some had combinations of
to ensure everything is even and aligned. plus the paint will hold the thread in place. each, and there was even a DH4 that had
Put a drop of CA on the brass pieces to You can also use paper strips to make the seven of them. You can also add bombs,
glue them to the cloth. sights, as they are light, and naturally hold a flare guns, extra Lewis Gun ammo drums on
I know it does not look right with all of circle when glued together. the side of the aircraft and even in the case
them touching, but hold on ... there is a For the grips, I try to use real wood, even of some Nieuports, rockets were attached to
method to my madness here. When the CA Balsa wood, so the gun has some colour the outer struts for ground attach missions.
has hardened, pull out every other ‘bullet’ and texture on the back end. Use wood This may have taken up a little more space
from the cloth strip, the CA does not stick as stain, brown paint or dip it into your cloudy than normal, but I felt we needed it all in one
strong to the Brass as it does to the cloth, paint thinner bottle for a weathered and hit. Now, next time around, we can carry on
and you now have perfectly spaced, well-used look. looking closely at that model Camel.
perfectly aligned and scale strip of rounds For the Spandau machine gun, most of As usual, I can be contacted at
for your machine gun. the building steps are the same, except [email protected]. I
Here’s a pair of finished Spandaus fitted to author Jon’s 1/16th scale Fokker D.VIII.

LEWIS
MACHINE
GUN
(Shown here with
cooling shroud
around barrel).
Scale 1:10
VICKERS
MACHINE
GUN
Scale 1:10
SPANDAU
MACHINE
GUN
Scale 1:10

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FORMATION DEC 13 Tony OK 29/10/13 10:48 Page 3

THE ISSUE AHEAD...

DECEMBER 2013 No.169

FULLSIZE FREE PLAN feature

22 FOKKER DR.1 FLYING COLOURS

24 FAIRCHILD F.24 RANGER

30 FAIRCHILD TYPE HISTORY

34 FAIRCHILD SCALE DRAWING

40 ERCOUPE SUBJECT FOR SCALE

44 ERCOUPE SCALE DRAWING

54 PRE-TENSIONING ruBBer motors

56 FREE FLIGHT SCALE NATIONALS

60 THE QUIET ZONE

DECEMBER 2013 FLYING SCALE MODELS 3

Editor: Tony Dowdeswell

FLYING SCALE MODELS is published

NEWSTRADE: Select Publisher Services,

visit: www.aeromodeller.com for the full range

Vintage AeroModeller A3 Cover Artwork - Limited Edition Prints

Alex Whittaker talks to Alan Glover about

his quarter scale DH 82 Tiger Moth

8 FLYING SCALE MODELS DECEMBER 2013

Naturally, the model will perform all the aerobatic

manoeuvres of the full-size aircraft.

DECEMBER 2013 FLYING SCALE MODELS 9

This incorporates an integral 2” silencer Covering Legending / Decals

Looks like you could climb in the back cockpit.

10 FLYING SCALE MODELS DECEMBER 2013

On a slow fly-by Alan’s Tigger really looks the business!

DECEMBER 2013 FLYING SCALE MODELS 11

Alan’s model is built from the Duncan Hutson kit.

12 FLYING SCALE MODELS DECEMBER 2013

easy. Most of the flying including take off

The Tiger Moth looks very pretty

DECEMBER 2013 FLYING SCALE MODELS 13

Techno Modelling by Mike Evatt

J to serve the world-wide

14 FLYING SCALE MODELS DECEMBER 2013

scours cyberspace for more TechnoScale Topics...

That’s all there is time for

DECEMBER 2013 FLYING SCALE MODELS 15

FULL-SIZE FREE PLAN

R Triplane is probably the most

The story behind the model

16 FLYING SCALE MODELS DECEMBER 2013

You really would be hard pressed

elected to salvage as much of the scale

DECEMBER 2013 FLYING SCALE MODELS 17

This is how the tail surfaces fit onto the

18 FLYING SCALE MODELS DECEMBER 2013

IT DOES NOT INCLUDE STRIP

Order set CUT482

DECEMBER 2013 FLYING SCALE MODELS 19

Just a few pointers

Stencil marking, dummy engine and very realistic ‘streaky

20 FLYING SCALE MODELS DECEMBER 2013