Flight Line Chief Folding Work Stand
Pros:
- Folds for easy storage.
- Utilizes high-quality, seven-ply, birch plywood.
- Work surfaces are reversible, to give a "new" look after years of use.
- Saves wear and tear on the knees!
Cons:
- Could include something to lock the stand in the folded position.
- Instruction manual needs more detail in a few sections. See text.
MANY OF US fancy ourselves woodworkers, able to design and build most anything we need to hold and support our models. Most of what we come up with does the job but is rarely exactly what we need; it's too heavy, not expandable enough, etc.
I admit that I fall into that category. With this in mind, I was optimistic that the contents of the package from Sidewalk Flyers could help retire some of my homemade creations. This box contained the kit of the Folding Work Stand—a foldable flightline stand/workstation with shelves and cradles to hold some fairly large models.
All pieces are said to be cut by a CNC (Computer Numeric Controlled) router, which should give a good, accurate fit and speed the construction process.
Upon opening the box, I saw quite a few pieces of high-quality plywood. Each piece was cut to size and shape, featuring nicely rounded corners, predrilled holes, and precut dadoes. Also included is a complete hardware kit featuring high-quality American hardware and an illustrated instruction booklet.
When perusing the instructions, I learned that assembly requires just a few everyday tools (Philips® screwdriver, drill, wrench, sandpaper, etc.), and all wood pieces should be painted or stained in some way to fuel-proof them.
After a light sanding, I stained the wood with a honey-tint polyurethane (I have always hated to cover natural wood grain with paint). Regardless of the method you choose, be prepared to spend a few hours simply because of the number of pieces.
Construction is straightforward, aided by the high level of millwork done at the factory. It starts by assembling the left and right leg pairs then joining them using several crossmembers.
Although the instructions do include photos of major steps, I had to study those photos quite carefully to ensure that I was using the correct part/face the right way. Some of the parts are described one way in the instructions but are called by a different name in the parts list.
The last step involves assembling the cradles. In prior steps, the type of screws, washers, and nuts were clearly called out—but not in this step.
By looking at the hardware list and taking a bit of time studying many of the photos, I was able to put them together in a way that works well.
Once assembled, the Folding Work Stand is surprisingly stable. It weighs 15 pounds and is quite easy to carry. It measures 39 inches tall (30 inches with cradles attached), 25 inches wide, and 23 inches deep (five inches deep when folded).
The designers included many extras that allow you to securely store the adjustable cradles, cradle extensions, and other goodies, keeping them all in one place.
With the construction complete, it was time to put the stand to use. I loaded up and headed off to my local field for some testing.
As you can see in the photos, the Folding Work Stand can hold a decent-size model and all the flight gear needed to support it.
With the aid of a friend, I started the model and found everything quite easy to do—as opposed to starting the model on the ground (it might seem somewhat obvious, but during higher throttle settings the propeller's thrust could easily tip the stand forward). Respect the power of your engine and use good sense at all times.
This is a well-designed stand. Its ability to fold up for storage is a great bonus. The cradles are adjustable and can hold most any model you have. The two shelves will hold a great deal of weight and should be able to handle years of use (and abuse).
The manual states that this kit can be assembled in 25 minutes—I would say closer to 45 (not including sanding and painting/staining).
Sidewalk Flyers makes a number of optional accessories and attachments to enhance the stand's usability. Contact the company for details.
Prices:
- Standard kit: $99.95
- Standard kit (assembled): $124.95
- Master kit: $109.95
- Master kit (assembled): $134.95
- Master kit includes cradle extensions and hooks for cradle centers.
Sidewalk Flyers
Mailing address: Box 1510 Jacksonville OR 97530
Shipping address: 2414 Kings Hwy. Medford OR 97501
(541) 734-2088 Fax: (541) 734-0609 [email protected] www.sidewalkflyers.com
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
