Henry T
This model got its name not only from my own, but from its similarity in purpose to Henry Ford's famous old Model T car, remembered for its economy and dependability. While not the simplest 1/2A RC model you could build nor the smallest, it has features important to me which give it fine stability, the capability of soaring on even light air, good takeoff and landing characteristics, and a rugged though lightweight structure. The original model shown here was well over a year old when this article was written, and it had logged more than 275 flights, many from very small fields. We originally planned the model to use the Cox Dragonfly engine which has a clunk tank of large capacity, muffler, and throttle control. Difficulty with two Drag onfly engines (made earlier when the company was owned by Leisure Dynamics) caused us to switch to the Cox Black Widow, which explains the mount extension. Past problems with the Dragonfly are reported to have been corrected, and because of my preference for throttle control and the ability to taxi and reduce engine speed for cruising, perhaps we will give this engine another try. However, for now the Black Widow is simple, inexpensive, and extremely reliable. The coil spring starter makes quick business of getting the model airborne.
