News Archive

Project News (Moved to General project pics & information):

A “short kit” will be made available (at cost) to the RCCD club members. This “short kit” will contain critical N/C laser cut parts, standard stock size balsa, hard wood and lite ply, servo wire lead tube, and a partial paper build plan to hand construct the empennage or tail feathers of the plane. If the build sequence and process is followed using the detailed construction manual with accompanying photos shown on the club's web site, there will be no need for a detailed full set of plans to build this plane. If desired, one could use a set of plans for the four star 60 design, only as a visual build reference, keeping in mind there are many design/construction differences between the planes.

The minimum of a four channel R/C system; the .60 size engine/motor and it's supporting hardware; the covering material, decals, and paint; the landing gear/wheels; and any hardware needed to complete the plane is the builder's choice and expense, and not included in the “short kit”.

Although construction will be at each builder's home for the most part, we will devote some time at each club meeting to discuss progress and provide any needed direction. The wood working and building technique is left up to the individual builder. There will be builders participating in this project that have no building experience at all, and up to the master model builders. The first few Ground Schools of 2012 will be devoted to subjects related to the build: Build techniques;
hardware selection and installation; covering; etc. Between meetings, participants are encouraged to get together in small groups for build sessions (these can be great social events too!!!). Or, just pick up the phone and call or send an email, if you need to discuss or question something you are working on. The project is led by Pete Mlinarcik, George Dudek, Joe Svatora, and Dick Babisch. Also, any experienced club member with model building experience can provide additional help with the common questions you may have.

Please note: The laser cut parts in the short kit are specifically designed to fit as supplied. There is no need to alter any laser cut part/s to fit, unless it is specified within the construction manual and accompanying photos.

• If you have never scratch-built a plane, this project is for you: You are bound to have a ball making your first plane, and it will provide repair skills to save an ARF, should gravity ever get the better of your flying skills.
• If you have built one or two planes, this project is for you: You'll be able to see how there are usually multiple ways to achieve the same result, learning along the way.
• If you are an experienced builder, this project is for you: You will be able to share with others what you have picked up over the years. You will also have a great-flying plane and who knows, perhaps the "old dog" will learn a new trick or two.

Remember to build safely, to fly safely
&
most of all, have fun doing it ! ! !
Compliments of
“The Radio Control Club of Detroit”

List of contributors to the project: