Strip Show
STRIP-TYPE ailerons are almost universal in RC aircraft-and for several good reasons. They are relatively easy to install, totally contained within the wing and fuselage, use simple hardware, are light-weight, and they become part of the hinging system. Most kits provide this type of aileron and include the hardware as part of the complete package. But in many cases the instructions for installation are not too clear, mostly because their use is so universal that the installation is taken for granted. The photos show a typical strip aileron system. It can be slightly modified to fit almost all situations calling for this type of aileron.
Jig That Fuselage
The jig to be described in the following pictures is by no means new or unusual in any way. In fact, if memory serves, one very similar unit was available in finished form some years ago. The construction is quite easy if a table or radial arm saw is available, and very well worth the effort. The use of such a jig will guarantee a true fuselage every time with less fuss and bother. The dimensions given are more or less for reference only, for they can be varied from Peanut to Quarter Scale to suit your requirements. This one is for small to medium RC aircraft.
Modesty
MODESTY, which Webster defines as "propriety of behavior," was originally conceived as a resting place for a two-channel radio that survived its mating with a foam RTF. Before its completion the two-channel radio was disposed of and a good old three-channel brick was dusted off and installed. The third channel, although not really necessary, did provide two things to my liking, the ability to throttle back and save fuel and to make touch-and-goes.
Stars & Balls
With the exception of a short period of time during WW I when the United States deferred to her allies with the cockade type of insignia, the Star and Ball was the way to identify U.S. military aircraft from 1917 to the beginning of WW II. During that Golden Age of aviation the white star on a blue field with a red center was often seen interspaced with the "stunt flyers" at airshows around the country as the military's way of attracting attention to their needs and their airplanes. The Star and Ball is a good decoration for sport type model airplanes and an easy one to construct from MonoKote. The finished product looks like a decal and is almost as easy to attach to the airplane.
Onestone
AS A GENERAL rule, pattern ships make poor fun-fly airplanes because they require too much maneuvering room. At the same time, fun-fly airplanes make poor pattern airplanes because they are too quick and lightly loaded. Reconciling these two types of performance is the reason for Onestone. While Onestone is not a competitive pattern airplane by any means, it is one heck of a good practice airplane for the aspiring pattern contestant. It is a solid, groovie craft that will go where you point it and stay where you leave it, and it does it considerably slower than a full-blown pattern airplane.
