David Peltz

HERE IS an inexpensive method for easily making perfect hinges for all of your movable control surfaces. Originally developed for high-performance RC Sailplanes, this hinging method can also be used on all sizes of power planes, including Giant Scale. These piano-like hinges have already been used on rudders, elevators, flaps, and ailerons-and flown at speeds approaching 100 mph without any problem. The hinges produced by this method have the following desirable characteristics: 1) high degree of freedom permits very large control surface movement, 2) very free moving due to low friction, 3) perfect control surface alignment, 4) precise, no hinge slop, 5) practically no gaps, 6) control surface can be removed in seconds for repairs or adjustments, 7) won't loosen under vibration, 8) withstands heavy loads, 9) can be used with any length control surfaces, 10) made from readily available lightweight and inexpensive materials, and 11) very easy to make.