H. Cordes

There are many techniques and materials that can be used to keep things light-a lot of modelers have developed their use into to a fine art. But how do you select power-train components to maximize thrust? It's not an easy task. Most catalogs and sales brochures are woefully short of accurate specifications or ratings. We're left with the "buy-it-and-try-it" method, tempered with judgment from experience. This is where static-thrust tests can help. They provide a better idea of an airplane's potential performance before you build or fly it. Static-thrust tests also reduce the number of "cut-and-try" tests in the field. Static tests can be run in the shop-day or night, or when the weather prevents flying.