Zero and Corsair
Being a bit of a Luddite I gave Andy Kirby at FlightPower the details of the new models, and he suggested the Evolution Park Fly set-up. So, with total confidence in the power system it was time to move on with the design. Choosing the subjects really wasnt that difficult as the suggestion from our esteemed editor only reinforced my own preference to build both the Mitsubishi A6 Zero and the Vought F4U Corsair; both particular favourites of mine, but not the easiest of models to design in a straightforward manner!
CONCEPT
Radial engines dictate round cowls and in this respect a pair of vac-formed items would be the order of the day, both to help me produce a near-scale fuselage and to provide less work for the builder... see, I do look after you!
Now trim the root of each wing panel to achieve the correct dihedral, fit the brace to one side and join the panels together. In the case of the Corsair, fillet the cranked wing joint with filler and blend to a smooth, flowing curve. Fettle the wing using fine abrasive paper to round off the leading edge and wing tips.
With a hacksaw blade, cut the main access hatch as indicated on the plan. Fit the locating pin and the hatch retaining plate, then drop the hatch back into position and drill a hole for the retaining screw. You may find that the fuselage sides slightly when the hatch is removed, though this can be cured by reinforcing the inside edge of the fuselage (along the hatch line) using pieces of 3mm square spruce or obechi. With this complete, refit the hatch and sand both this and the fuselage side flush with each other. Finally, strengthen the wing-fuselage joint by running a fillet of glue along the joint on the inside of the model.
TAILPLANE & FIN
FITTING OUT & COVERING
Fitting the motor and radio can be done quite easily when the models complete, although now's a good time to fit the motor mounts and check the clearances with the cowl in situ.
I decided not to subject the Corsair to the same inclement conditions and chose instead to wait patiently for better weather. When it finally arrived I was ready and waiting, the model equipped with the new FlightPower EVO Synergy park fly package. With the aid of The Aviator Colin Hammond to launch, the Corsair leaped away at an alarming rate of knots! Slowing her to 1/2 throttle calmed things a little, and rates were again quickly switched in. Just a whiff of trim was added to the elevator and ailerons, and within a minute I was thoroughly enjoying this little aeroplane. Even Colin was tugging at the transmitter neck strap for a go. He might have Large Model Association tattooed across his forehead but he does like the challenge of the small stuff, you know! After 15 minutes or so it was time to bring the Corsair back to base with another perfect landing, again with no signs of a stall at low speed.
ALL BOXES TICKED
Model type: Electric fun-fighters
Designed by: Tony Nijhuis
Wingspan: 32'' (Zero); 311⁄2'' (Corsair)
All-up weight: 16 - 25oz
Wing loading: 15oz / sq. ft.
Fuselage length: 23'' (Zero); 24'' (Corsair)
Recd motor: AXI 2208/20 Silverline
Recd battery: 1050mAh 2s1p Li-Po
Recd propeller: APC 8 x 4'' electric
Recd ESC: 10amp (Li-Po compatible)
- The Zero and Corsair plans can be purchased here (Zero) and here (Corsair).
- Don't forget that you can chat to other plan builders in our forum 'workshop' area.
- Log in or register to post comments