Aerovan
MOTORING ON
Well, that's how the model came together in record time. Did it fly on Sunday? You bet it did, and in the very capable hands of young Ali Mashinchy, who put the Aerovan well and truly through its paces. More about that later.
Battery access need not be a problem on the Aerovan thanks to a handy underside hatch.
FUSELAGE
Make up the four nose pieces, i.e. two No. 10 and two No. 11, from 12mm balsa.
Glue the side pieces on first, at an angle, allowing them to overhang the fuselage sides by 3mm. Fit the top and bottom pieces, then add a further piece of 12mm scrap to cover the opening left at the front of the nose; that done, you can begin to razor-plane and sand the parts to form a smooth, flowing curve into the contours of the fuselage.
From sheet or a solid, rectangular block, cut a cockpit. Trim to match the plan-view shown, and then the side-view; next, plane away enough material to make the front two windows rake back. Once happy, glue the cockpit block into position, and feather it to the surrounding fuselage.
Give the whole a final rub down with sandpaper.
WINGS
Not massive but neat. There's room for elevator and rudder servos although I didn't fit the latter.
Add shear webbing pieces, using 1.6mm sheet balsa, which can be placed between the top and bottom main spars (as indicated on the plan). Make up the aileron torque rod, and secure it between the fixed part of the t.e. and i.t.e. at the wing root. Produce some ailerons, install the hinges, and test fit each unit. Finally, fit the wing tip, which is made from 12mm sheet balsa. Then, simply repeat all the above to make your other panel.
SHAKE AND VAC
COVERING & FINISHING
Trim the nacelles to allow each motor shaft to exit, and cut some cooling holes as well.
You'll find the Aerovan to be amazingly aerobatic
FLIGHT LINES
Model type: Twin engine transport
Designed by: Tony Nijhuis
Wingspan: 571/2
Wing chord: 73/4
Wing area: 446 sq. in
Fuselage length: 423/4
Recd power: Permax 400 6V x 2
Recd propeller: Standard Gunther
Recd no. channels: 3 / 4
Control functions: Aileron, elevator, throttle, rudder (optional).
- Got a question? Click here to go to the Tony Nijhuis plan builders forum section.
- Click here to order the Aerovan plan.
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