Radio Control: Scale
WHEN proper procedures are followed, flying multiengined Scale RC models is no more difficult than flying single-engined Scale models. More complex, yes, but no more difficult. However, there are big differences, and it is extremely important for the flier new to the multiengine challenge to know and understand these differences. I'll be talking twin-engined models, but the same principles apply to models with more than two engines. First, a quick run-through on design and construction practices. Though twins are considerably more work to build than singles, they are well worth it. Since the engines are in the wings on most twins, the fuselage can be kept very light, because all it's doing structurally is attaching the tail feathers to the wing.
Radio Control: Scale
PET SUBJECTS of mine are going to be the focus for this and next month's columns. There are several points of Scale RC modeling which fall into the categories of the pet subjects that I'm going to cover. Though certainly not unique, my points are, I feel, important. I hope that my ideas on them will be different enough to be both interesting and helpful to you. Tail-draggers is pet subject number one. It seems that a high percentage of beginning RCers plan on eventually becoming involved in building and flying Scale models. Since most Scale models that RCers want to fly are tail-draggers, it follows that these RCers should be skilled in handling tail-dragger models.
Radio Control: Scale
SCRATCH DESIGNING: Like many ardent Scale fliers, I have scratch designed my planes for a number of years. This practice offers real advantages. You can build and fly a Scale model of your favorite plane, one that's never been kitted and for which no plans plans have been drawn. You can make it exactly the way you think it should be; and best of all, you'll have the immense satisfaction of having created your own jewel. Many Scale fliers would like to scratch design and build their own ships, but are reluctant to try what can be a fascinating and satisfying part of modeling. I've heard modelers say they think it takes special skills and experience which they lack.
Radio Control: Scale
Several times within the last year I have been a guest columnist for this column and have primarily covered "how-to" subjects. But this time I'm going to concentrate on the heart and soul of RC Scale modeling, the flying. I'll be covering several of the many interesting Scale models that I enjoyed seeing fly at various locations around the country this last year. The big Nosen P-51 has been around since the early days of the big plane movement. And the popularity of the 105-in, kit of this fighter appears to be steadily increasing. However, it has been my observation during these years that this very large model has usually been underpowered sometimes grossly so. The resulting mediocre performance, especially in the rolling and vertical maneuvers, does not do justice to this outstanding and proud warbird. Well, Joe Pasztor, that enthusiastic and gung ho flier from Lake Jackson, TX, showed every one at the IMAA Festival '89 at Odessa what a properly powered Nosen P-51 can do.
