When it comes to that first test flight of your newly finished giant-scale warbird (or any gas engine-powered model), you can increase your chances for an incident-free experience by correctly installing and setting up your powerplant. As with most things related to RC warbirds, neatness counts. Here are a few tips for making your firewall forward work like a pro’s.
HARDWARE AND FUEL LINES
It goes without saying that you do not want to take any shortcuts while building your warbird. So start off by using the correct hardware for the job. If you have an ARF, check the quality of the attachment bolts and nuts as well as the engine standoffs, if required. If the hardware isn’t up to your standards, get some replacements from RTL Fasteners. I often replace metric hardware with standard SAE versions. Inside the fuselage behind the firewall, if I have relatively easy access, I use plastic insert locknuts with large fender washers in place of blind nuts. Using a hex driver outside and a box-end wrench inside, I snug the engine attachment nuts and bolts, check the engine alignment and offset, and then tighten them up. If you prefer the blind nuts, be sure to use a little thread locker so the hardware doesn’t come loose. There is a good bit of vibration in this environment, so do periodic checks as well.
This story is from the April 2020 edition of Model Airplane News.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the April 2020 edition of Model Airplane News.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Legend Hobby / Seagull Models - Cessna Grand Caravan 208
The Cessna Grand Caravan 208 is a legend in aviation circles. A single engine utility aircraft that punches up with capabilities that rival many twin engine aircraft in its class. Its seemingly simple configuration belies its near extreme utility.
PROPER CG LOCATION FOR AEROBATICS
If you are getting into aerobatics and are starting to perform more advanced maneuvers, it is time to discuss ways you can not only become a better pilot, but how you can also improve the flight characteristics of your airplanes.
Legend Hobby 13-Foot L-19 Bird Dog/ Cessna O-1
This famous multi-mission single engine observation aircraft served from 1950-1974. From calling out target locations to providing intel/recon information, the Bird Dog was a valued asset in both the Korean War and Vietnam.
EARN YOUR WINGS
10 Tips for First-Flight Success
Old School Model Works Fifty Six
The Fifty Six takes its design cues from the original .09- to .15-size Carl Goldberg Falcon 56 of the 1960s. Reworked to incorporate modern, lasercut techniques to make kit building better than ever.
FLYING TWINS Multi-engine warbirds made easy
Let’s face it, there’s just something extra special about twin-engine RC aircraft. Most modelers stop what they’re doing when a twin fires up on the flightline.
HOW TO BALANCE PROPELLERS
Four easy steps to increase performance and reduce vibration
PRODUCT REVIEW: RC PLANE STANDS BENCHTOP MODEL
I’m a sucker for shop stuff. I buy tools I will probably never use just because they are cool, or I might need to use them someday. When Glen from RC Plane Stands reached out about a review, however, I knew as soon as I browsed their website that I would be receiving something I would use a lot, maybe even daily.
SPIRIT OF RHINEBECK AWARD WINNER
A close up of Norman Malinowski’s 1/3-scale Albatros
CENTER OF GRAVITY BASICS
The secret to a plane that flies well
