Control Line: Aerobatics
Several columns ago, I discussed the value of refinishing a good-flying airplane. I had decided to refinish my number-four Caudron and use it as a test project for the new Brodak butyrate dope. In another previous column, I discussed how to strip the airplane down to bare wood. From there, I started the process of preparing the bare structure. With any refinish, somewhere are areas that require repair prior to recovering. After I block-sanded everything carefully, I restored the surfaces. This is the easiest point in the process to make the lightest repair.
Control Line: Aerobatics
This month I'm going to continue with assembling the typical Stunter, focusing on the wing/fuselage installation. But before I get to that, I thought I'd write a few words on why this is all so important-if not critical-to your latest creation. You might have heard the fervent wish to "build it light and straight." Well, to that I add, "better straight than light (within reason)," and here's why: If an airplane is built correctly, the chances are good that you will be able to trim it to fly reasonably well. An airplane that is out of alignment will never fly to its full potential, with compensating trim fighting the improper alignment. Many times I've let the mindset, "that looks good enough" overcome good sense. Only the correct alignment is acceptable on any model. Any time invested in ensuring that is justified.
Control Line: Aerobatics
At this year's Nationals (Nats), PAMPA (Precision Aerobatics Model Pilots Association) will host an Intermediate event to be run in conjunction with Beginner. It will mark the first time for this spectrum of skill levels in competition. The emphasis will be on helping everyone learn; many "name" fliers have already volunteered to mentor the contestants. Everyone is invited to come, participate and enjoy, and be part of the future. As I write this column, the Winter Olympics is in full swing. Watching competitors in the various events is thrilling, but as individuals we can learn by observing the methods and mental exercises that contestants use to prepare themselves for their moment in the sun. Figure skaters work on their programs; then, prodded by their coaches, they come back and repeat the less-than-perfect parts. Speed skaters are observed in dry practice; that is, going through the precise form and body positions required in certain parts of the race. I saw several downhill skiers mentally going through the sequence of turns to get themselves set for their runs.
Control Line: Aerobatics
This month I'll talk about problems that can arise when checking out a new airplane or engine. I used the word or because you are looking for trouble if you attempt to do both at the same time. Sure, it's been done, and will be in the future, but it certainly isn't the most-desirable situation. Use an engine system (whatever one you like) -including an engine, propeller, tank, and exhaust unit (tuned or muffled) -that you know is checked out and working reliably! Having that baseline will prevent a situation from which you can't recover, such as the engine stopping in an attitude that will cause the untrimmed model to crash.
Control Line: Aerobatics
THE WEATHER IS changing, and I'm looking forward to a great flying season. Old airplanes are repaired and flyable, and the new one is awaiting trim colors. Propellers and lines, fuel and pipes are all ready to test; only one ingredient is not quite prepared, and that's me. Many of you probably spent the winter building, generally indoors, without getting much exercise, and there's the problem. Not until you get out and work hard in a long practice session do you realize that you need some preparation. Worse yet, with our models, we Aerobatics fliers may get tired and shorten practice, when we actually need more.
