Mini Brute (oz11278)

About this Plan

Mini Brute. Control line stunt model, for .19 to .25 power.

Quote: "It fits in a compact car, doesn't burn much fuel, and flies like a 'full size' stunter. Mini Brute, by Bill Melton.

The idea for the Mini-Brute was originally conceived when interest first started in the big stunt planes being powered by 45 to 60 engines. We all know that modelers will do anything to be different, so I went the other direction. I wanted a small, contest type stunt plane with a modern appearance but not of the jet type. The idea was dormant until I traded for a 'new' 1957 Fox 25. I have always admired the running characteristics of this engine, and its small size made it ideal for my project.

The original model was built without a set of plans so the appearance just 'grew' until it matched my expectations. I also wanted to evaluate a few design features, so the Mini-Brute ended up with the wing and stabilizer mounted in-line with the engine thrust line and with equal length wing panels. The small size turned out to have several other advantages, including reduced fuel consumption and ease of packing into cars. With today's trend toward compact cars, this last feature might become quite important.

The flying characteristics of the model turned out much better than anticipated. The plane was smooth, yet would turn with most slow combat planes. It did not hesitate or yaw in the turns. Wind was no more of a factor than with its larger cousins. In general, the flying characteristics can best be described as 'fun'. The aircraft has the sensation of a combat plane without the speed and with the smoothness of a stunt plane. The engine also lived up to my expectations and performed flawlessly. I have also flown the plane with the Fox 19, but still prefer the 25. The difference may have been due to my memory of the Fox 25 pulling a Nobler (at sea level).

CONSTRUCTION Wing: I always start construction with the wing because this is the part I dis-like the most. The ribs are prepared by cutting templates for the root and tip ribs from 3/32 plywood. The rib blanks are cut from 1/16 balsa and sandwiched between the templates, then carved and sanded to shape. I use the balsa rib as a pattern to make the plywood rib for the landing gear mount. The original trailing edge was cut from a piece of 1/2 in planking using the tilting table of a band saw; however, I am sure it could be made from a piece of regular trailing edge stock. The ribs are first glued to the trailing edge and then the leading edge installed. After this assembly is dry, the entire wing is blocked up about 1 in off the building surface. Extreme care should be taken to insure that everything is straight at this point and that you are not building in any warps... "

Mini Brute, MAN, September 1979.

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Supplementary file notes

Article pages, thanks to RFJ.

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