Box of Delights (oz11222)

About this Plan

Box of Delights. Radio control sport model. A suitcase model: The wings, tailplane and undercarriage all detach from the fuse so that the model can be packed into a small box.

Quote: "Geoff Sprawson's latest pack-away model for .19 diesels and three function radio.

Here it is, the follow up to Jack in a Box (oz7706), a powered sports-aerobatic, pack-away model that you can take with you anywhere, to enjoy flying whenever you get a chance. The model is fun to fly, with neutral, docile and vice-free handling. It is almost suitable as an aileron trainer, bearing in mind that it stays in whatever altitude you put it in!

The prototype is powered by a PAW 19 diesel. This has the advantage of simple operation, no flight box, no starter and no glowplug leads; just a can of fuel, carried outside the box in case of leaks. The first time that it was flown, the other modellers watched apprehensively as I arrived with a plane and no equipment, expecting that I would need to borrow all their gear! The diesel engine also has the important benefit of a less obtrusive exhaust note, vital for a model which may be flown in unusual locations.

Creating The Beast: Start with the wings; they are needed to align the components on F3. The ribs are all the same size and may be sandwiched or cut with a template, sand smooth and drill the holes for the joiner tubes. Razor plane the leading and trailing edges to section, pack them to height on the plan and glue up the wing frame with the ribs and spars. Let both wings dry, position the joiner tubes and wires and check alignment.

When you are satisfied, epoxy the tubes in position, add the packing blocks around the main tubes and web the spars. Sheet the wings, and fix the cap strips to the ribs and trailing edge. Epoxy the aileron torque tubes in position, add the false trailing edges and the ply root facings. Fit the 3/32in. tip outlines, glue the foam blocks in position and leave until dry. Cut the foam to section with a hot wire or a hacksaw blade. (If you use a hot wire, pin a card template to the end of the foam to keep the cut straight). Sand to final shape, and, for those using film or heat shrink nylon, coat with 'Balsaloc'. Remember, don't use a doped finish on unprotected foam! Shape the ailerons, but don't fit them until the torque rods can be positioned in the completed fuselage.

Epoxy the main joiner tube accurately across F3. Assemble the wings on the joiners, the aileron bellcranks on their mountings and position on F3. Fit the aileron torque rods into the bellcranks, and check for free movement. When it all works properly epoxy the rear joiner tube and bellcrank..."

Box of Delights, R/C Model World, July 1986.

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Supplementary file notes

Article pages, thanks to RFJ.

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